First Love

​Marielle ♥ dominus ♥​​

  Belle post in front of the camera. She's wearing a black lacy lingerie in contrast to her long black hair and fair skin. She's called "The Sex Goddess" and almost all male fantasized about her. She has lots of billboards everywhere and calendars all around. She's a diamond in the modeling world.

The photographer called a wrap after a few minutes. Jack, her manager came to her and gave her a robe. She smiled and thanked him.

"Are you hungry?" he asked.

"Totally, hungry. I can't believe this shoot was shot for hours." she grumbled. "My stomach is killing me. Do you have any food there?"

He shook his head. "Sorry, didn't bring any. Let's eat together."

"I can't. I have to go home. Mom's waiting," she pouted her lips. "I'm so hungry."

"Eat first." Jack urged.

"No, I'll be fine." she said with a sigh. "I'll just change and head to mom's place and I'll eat there. She probably cooked a lot. Want to come with me?"

"Nope, girlfriend waiting." he grinned at her.

She laughed. "Fine, I'll go alone. Don't kill yourself if I die out of hunger on the way."

He rolled his eyes. "As if. Don't overreact, girl."

Belle looked around the school park. No more table is empty and everyone has someone they're talking to. Of course, she doesn't know someone. She has never been close to someone 'cause she's considered weird and a nerd on school. She's not really a nerd because she seldom studies. She just wears those big glasses and long baggy shirts and jeans and has her long black hair always tied up in a messy way.

She stopped in front of a table far from all. She sat there and stared at everyone. Why is she so different from the others? Why doesn't she have anyone close with her? She shrugged, she didn't care. She laid on the long wooden bench and put earphones on her ears listening to nothing. She just wanted to pretend that she can't hear anyone. She closed her eyes.

Weird girl, she thought to herself.

"Uh...miss?" someone asked.

She didn't opened her eyes thinking the boy would go away thinking she can't hear him.

"Excuse me," he said again tapping the table.

She sighed and sat up staring at a boy who look cute. Real cute. "Yeah?" she asked still earphones attached.

"This table," he shouted. "Is reserved."

She raised an eyebrow at him, trying not to laugh. "I can perfectly hear you. No need to shout."

"Ah...sorry, I thought you can't 'cause you have earphones." he explained as he smiled at her.

"I wasn't listening to anything." she explained as she stood up. "What were you saying?"

"This table is ours. I mean, I'm not kicking you out of here, it's just that Matt hates it when someone else sits here and since you're cute and all, I'm warning you." he explained.

She nodded not really understanding what he said. She was moving away when someone put an arm around her. She looked up and saw a man with long black hair. "Nathan, Matt will kill you once he found out you brought a girl."

"Not my girl," The boy addressed as Nathan raised his hands, palms up.

Belle sighed as she move away from his grasp bumping into someone which results to her earphones falling and that someone crushing it with his shoes. She sighed again as she look up at the man. Her heart skip a beat seeing his face. He looks like a bad boy prince.

"Is this yours?" he picked it up.

She nodded.

"It's of no use." he stated with a monotone voice. He looked at the boy who has his arm around Belle earlier. "I told you to not bring anyone around here, Chase." he said with an icy tone.

"I swear Matt, I don't know her. I saw her with Nathan." he pointed at the cute boy.

Nathan shook his head. "Certainly not me, I just saw her here. Maybe she's waiting for you."

Matt rolled his eyes. "She's not my type."

Belle raised an eyebrow and shook her head. Just because you're handsome... "Bastard." she said and walked off leaving them behind.

Belle stare into the writings on the book, not really understanding anything on it. She's on the school cafeteria and everyone is noisy and busy doing their thing, for her, she's alone again and she doesn't mind it. She would've prefer stocking her ears with an earphone but she doesn't have one and she has to buy another one when she got out the school later. She opened a piece of chocolate and began nibbling on it. She loves chocolate though it doesn't add to her weight.

Someone sat beside her. She looked at the intruder and saw Nathan.

"What's up?" he asked cheerfully.

Students around grew quiet as Chase followed by Matt sat in front of her and Nathan.

"There's no seats available." Matt blurted suddenly.

Nathan chuckled, "Man, you sound defensive."

"Aw, shut up." Matt glared at him.

She looked at the two and at Chase. "What are you doing here?"

"As Matt said, no seats available." Chase shrugged.

She cocked an eyebrow. "You could have sit with other people. Not me."

"Actually," Nathan said casually. "We weren't really going to sit-"

Matt stopped him with a punch on the arm. "Just eat, all of you."

They all ate silently. Belle looked at them with a confused expression and then looked at her book nibbling on the chocolate.

"So, Isabelle, aren't those chocolates gonna make you fat?" Nathan asked after a few minutes of silent. "Ow!" he shouted and glared at Matt. "If you won't stop hurting me, I'll court Isabelle!"

Matt raised an eyebrow at him and glared but he blushed before looking away.

"How did you know my name?" Belle asked.

"I did." Chase raised his hand. "I hacked on the school's data base." he grinned.

"Ah..." she said. "Thought I could only do that."

"What!" the three shouted.

She grinned at them showing fully carved dimples. They were dazzled and blinked back looking away.

"You hacked the school's data base before?" Chase whispered at her.

She nodded. "Yeah," she looked on her watch. "I have to go." she stood up and walked away.

Belle sat on the stairs on the fire exit. She slept there almost every time finding peace from her loud dorm mates always babbling about things that aren't really worth to talk about. She was half-awake and half-asleep when someone opened the door. She opened her eyes and saw Matt. Dreaming, she thought and closed her eyes again.

"What are you doing here?" he asked.

She opened her eyes. "Am I dreaming?"

He chuckled at her cuteness. "No, you're not and you can't sleep here."

She blew air exasperatedly and sat up. She's on the highest stair while he was far below. "Why can't I? Don't tell me you own this place too."

"No, I don't..." he said. "You can't sleep here 'cause...you'll get a cold. Look at what you're wearing."

She looked at herself. "This is perfectly decent."

"Yeah it is...but it's thin." he pointed out. "And my neck is strained from looking up on you." he sighed and went up sitting next to her. A few spaces in between.

"What are you doing here, anyway?" she asked.

"Here." he said.

She looked at him and saw that he's holding a blue earphone. She raised an eyebrow at him. "What is this?"

"Earphones." he said not looking at her. "You remembered yesterday when I broke your earphones before and you called me a bastard." he grinned. "Bastard,"

"Do you have to repeat it?" she asked pulling the earphone at his hands. She examined it. "Cute,"

"Nope, doesn't have to repeat it and I know it's cute..." he said with a shrugged and murmured. "That's why I chose it for you."

After a few minutes of an eerie silence,

"Was it the first time someone called you a bastard?" she inquired.

"Not really." he said. "Many girls called me that when I broke up with them."

"Ah..." Belle nodded in understanding. "When you broke up with them..."

"Yup, when I broke up with them." he said.

"Do you have to repeat it?" she asked with a grin.

"Nah," he smiled back.

"Then why are you repeating it?"

"I'm just pointing it out."

"Why are you pointing it out?"

"For you to understand."

She sighed. "Your a senior, right?"

"Yup, graduating. I should be so busy right now. You're a freshman?" he asked.

She nodded. "I have three more years to stay here while you'll be gone for just months..." she frowned.

"You hate studying?"

"Not really, I'm just not interested in it. It bores me to death." she explained. "Dad will kill me once he finds out I'm saying this."

"Your dad?" he asked.

"Yup, my dad. He enrolled me here thinking I'll be good and all...He wants me to become a successful person." she snorted. "As if..."

"My dad and your dad is clearly alike." he said with a grin. "Where is your dad?"

"Somewhere out there." she said. She looked at her wrist watch. "Have to go. See you around." she waved and was off before he can even say something.

"Goodbye."

Belle went inside her dorm.

"Belle," Steve called with a wide grin.

She raised an eyebrow at him. "What are you doing here, Steven?"

"Visiting you." he said. "Can't I at least get a hug?"

"You won't get anything ever." she said as she went inside the bathroom and removed her pants. She went out wearing her underwear but covered with her long shirt.

He whistled. "Sexy,"

"I'm going to sleep. Do shut the door when you get out." she said and climbed on her bed. She tucked on the blanket and slept.

Steve sighed. "Stubborn snobby girl." he went out and faced Matt and Nathan.

"Hey, Steve, what are you doing on a girl's dorm room?" Nathan asked.

"Visiting someone who slept at me." Steve said with a frown.

"What?" Nathan asked. "Explain further. I don't get your point."

"I visited her but she dumped me again by sleeping straight and telling me to go home." he explained.

Nathan laughed. "I have to see that girl." he tried to go inside but Steve stopped him.

"She's sleeping. You'll see her soon...though she's kinda avoiding me." Steve said.

Nathan laughed again. "Can't I see her now? I'm really intrigue with that girl.

Steve punched him on the arm. "Come on,"

Matt looked at him intently. "What's her name?"

"Why?" Steve asked. Nathan looked at the two with a confused expression then said,

"Uh-oh."

"Just tell me the name, Steven." Matt said with an angry expression.

"Belle. Isabelle Cooper." Steve said. What's wrong with this man?

"Steve likes Belle?" Chase asked Nathan.

They were on the Matt's room, drinking.

"Yeah, Matt's Belle." Nathan explained. "And what's more? He's on a visiting stage with Belle while our man here haven't even asked her out."

Chase whistled. "Well, Steve is handsome but not as handsome as Matt though you'll be lucky if Steve is chasing you-"

"Stop it, will you?" Matt shouted and drank straight his beer.

"Ah..." Nathan and Chase chorused looking at Matt. "Can't believe he fell for her."

"Yeah, I know, someone like that girl isn't her type." Chase said.

"Belle is the model type. You just didn't notice but she's sexy like hell." Nathan said.

"If she is sexy, I would've seen it. I'm good at the girl's body." Chase argued.

"Stop talking about her body!" Matt shouted at them throwing pillows at the two.

They both laughed and Nathan whispered at Chase but loudly that Matt heard. "She just wears those big shirts to hide the curves but I saw her playing football with the girls and there wasn't a big shirt so she wear the same shirts as those others and I swear it's mouthwatering."

Matt stood up trying to lunge at the two when they both laughed and went outside.

"We'll send you a gift." Chase called.

"Shut up!" Matt called and laid on his bed.

After a few minutes, someone knocked on the door. He covered his face with a pillow and tried to sleep. The knock become more louder.

He stood up and slammed the door open. "Wha-Belle?"

Belle looked at him. Her hair tangled and she's wearing a big shirt. Nathan and Chase dragged her from her bed telling Matt was in trouble. "What's wrong?" she asked suddenly. "Are you hurt?"

"Am...I hurt?" Matt asked with a confused expression.

She nodded still half-asleep. "Nathan and Chase dragged me here saying you need me."

He ran his hands on his hair. "That guys..."

A door next room opened and Matt dragged Belle inside. "Ow," she said because of the force he used. "What's wrong?"

"I can't let them see you like that." Matt said. She was pinned on the wall and a few inches was his body.

"Like what?" she asked. "If you're okay...I'll just get back to my room, I want to sleep."

"You can't go out yet," he said. "Did you walk from up there to down here wearing an underwear and a shirt?"

She nodded. She pushed him away and walked towards the bed and plopped on it. She tucked herself under the covers. "Good night, so turn the lights off."

"What?" Matt asked incredibly.

"Ungh!" she said tossing on the bed and was asleep.

"What the hell?" Matt said as he ran his fingers on his hair.

"Isn't she stubborn?" someone from behind the door said.

He turned around and tried to open it. "Hey, Nathan, open up. What are you doing?"

"You two are sleeping together." Chase said.

"What!" Matt shouted. "I'll kill you once I get out of here."

Belle moaned from the bed. "Q-Quiet," she were able to murmur sleepily.

"You don't want to wake her up, do you?" Nathan teased. "So don't make noise and just sleep beside her. You're not really making love, Matt, just sleeping on the same bed."

"Damn!" Matt muttered.

"Go on," Chase urged with a giggle.

"Shut up, you demons. I'll be sleeping on the floor." Matt said.

Matt woke up feeling the coldness of the floor and a stiff arm. He moaned as he tried to move it but it won't budge. Something is laid on it. He peered with one eye and saw Belle's face. "Wha-Am I dreaming?" he closed his eyes again and then the reality of what happened hit him. "Oh shit!"

Belle move closer at him burying her face on his chest. He stiffened. "Uh...Belle?" he tapped her on the back.

She murmured something unintelligible and moved away from him hitting her head on the bed's leg. She jerked upright. "Aw!"

Matt also stood up and pulled Belle to him looking at her head. "Where does it hurt? Here? Here..." When he looked at Belle, she was staring at him dreamily.

He blushed and looked away. "Are you...alright?"

"What am I doing at your room?" Belle was back to her usual snobby self.

"Don't you remember? Last night..." Matt trailed unable to continue.

"Last night?" Belle asked and flushed. "Last night I came here and slept at your bed." she groaned. "So sorry, I am usually like that whenever I'm sleepy."

He grinned at her embarrassment. "That's fine, I enjoyed it."

"What?" Belle looked at him and raised an eyebrow.

He nudged her playfully on the arm. "Just kidding."

She pouted her lips and rolled her eyes. "Just kidding, yourself. I'm going back to my room."

"Like that?" he asked. She looked at herself and covered her legs. "Nice legs,"

"Pervert," she blushed.

He laughed. "As far as I'm concern, you walk like that from your floor down here so probably I'm not the only one who saw those."

"Stop it," she covered his eyes.

He laughed again. "There's jeans on my cabinet. I'll go get it."

"No, I'll go." she said. "Turn around."

"Yes, milady." he turned around with a grin.

She shuffled on the cabinet. "This is too big."

"Try the shorts."

She laughed. "Your shorts are boxer shorts."

"Stop looking at them!" he scolded. "The khaki shorts is on the lower and the belt is hung in there."

After a few minutes, "I'm cool."

He turned around. "Fix your hair."

"Where is my ponytail?" she asked looking around.

"Just comb it. Here." he tossed a brush at her. "Now go, everyone must still be asleep." She was turning towards the door when Matt stopped her. He grinned as she looked at her and said, "Morning by the way."

She stared at him for a moment and grinned the unusual seen smile of Belle. "Morning." She went outside and froze. "Steve?"

"Belle? What are you doing-"

"Belle, here's your ponytail." Matt said as he got out the room and froze as he saw Steve. "Ah..."

Belle stared at Steve then at Matt. She grabbed the ponytail at his hand and greeted Steve, "Morning."

"Morning?" Steve asked. "That's all you are going to say after I saw you going out of another man's room?"

She raised an eyebrow at him. "What is wrong with you?"

"What!" he shouted. "I can't believe this."

"Steve, this is none of your business. Stay out of this." Matt said.

"I know her first." Steve said firmly.

"Whoa, stop." Belle said looking at the two. "What is the problem with you guys?"

"They're jealous with each other." Nathan said. He was leaning at a door nearby.

"Jealous?" Belle raised an eyebrow at him and looked at Steve and Matt. "Seriously? I'm not even dating...any of them."

"But they still like you." She spun around and faced Chase who was also leaning on a door.

"What's with the leaning thing?" Belle asked them.

Nathan laughed. "Just making a cool entrance."

"Belle..." Steve called.

"Yeah?" Belle inquired.

"Let's talk."

"Uh- sure." she said.

Steve pulled her arm but Belle was drag back when Matt stopped them by pulling on her other arm. "Oh." Belle said looking at the two. Matt and Steve looked at each other, sizing up.

"Oh...it's getting hot in here." Chase said.

Students started pouring out the rooms and stop to watch what was happening.

"Let go, Matt." Steve said.

"No, you let go. I'll talk to her first." Matt said.

"What will you say?" Steve asked. "That you liked her and wants to court her? Not a chance,"

"Look, guys, you're tearing her apart." Chase said.

"Stay out of this." The two snarled at him.

Chase raised his hand. "Backing off."

"Seriously, man, go find your own girl." Steve said to Matt.

"Who said she's yours?" He let go of her and approached Steve. Steve followed pushing Matt in the chest. Belle watched them with a confused expression totally innocent of what they were fighting about.

"Go to hell!" Matt shouted and swung at Steve. He toppled and kicked him on the stomach. He groaned and was going to come back when he was stopped by Nathan and Steve by Chase.

"Why are you fighting and please don't talk to me as if I'm not here." Belle said. She walked away and muttered. "Idiots."

Belle was sitting on the park when she heard her name being called on the guidance office.

"Knock, knock. It's Belle, sir." Belle called from outside.

"Come in," he called from inside.

She went inside and sat on the chair. "What is it, sir?"

"There was rumors..."

"Yeah?" she urged him to continue.

"That you weren't at your room last night." he said.

She stared at him.

"Don't you have anything to say about this?" he asked.

She shrugged casually.

"Were you at your room last night?"

"No." Belle said.

"Where were you and who were you with?" he inquired.

She's innocent but she's not oblivious that if she said that she was with Matt, he'll get busted. "I was on the Fire Exit...alone."

"Fire Exit?" he asked a little doubtful.

"Yeah, I slept there the whole time because...I want to go somewhere quiet." she lied casually.

"But the dorm keeper saw you early in the morning walking out of the boy's floor. Belle, you're a smart girl so..." he said. "Who were you with the whole night?"

Busted. "Like I said, I wasn't with anyone." she lied again.

He sighed. "Who are you protecting, Belle?"

She smiled icily. "None of your business, sir." she emphasized the word sir.

He stared at him with a little shocked expression and sighed. "You're suspended for a week and we will find out who that guy is."

"A week?" she asked.

"Yeah, a week. Go back home and return after a week." he said. "Now off you go, young girl. And do fix your attitude. It's becoming worse."

"Whatever," Belle muttered then went out of the office going into her room and packing some clothes and her gadgets. She changed into a tank top with blue jacket and maong pants. She wore her sneakers and tied her hair up. She put her eyeglasses and went out of her room facing Matt.

"Where are you going?" Matt asked. "With all these things?"

"Home," she muttered.

"Home?" he raised an eyebrow at her.

"Yup,"

"Uh...mind if I ask why? I mean, I know you were called a few minutes ago at the office, what did you do?" he inquired.

"I do mind and that's none of your business." she muttered walking out and stopped as she passed him. "See you after a week." she grinned and walked away.

He stared at her and followed. "A week? Why? What did you do?"

"Told you, none of your business." she said. "And it's better for us not to be seen together."

"Why?" his eyebrows furrowed, confused.

"Because your girls will rip my hair out and scratch my face with their pointy pink painted nails and trample my eyeglass to death." she said and sighed. "You should never even approach me. You're not on my level."

He frowned and pulled her towards the wall trapping her with the wall and his body. "I won't let them hurt you..." he said with a husky voice staring deep at her eyes.

"Ah..." she trailed unable to continue as she stare at his lips. She licked her sudden dry lips.

He stare at her and his eyes flicker on her lips. He leaned down and gave him a peck. He stare at her eyes and she stare back. "Ah...is this okay?"

"You don't have to ask for permission." she grinned and pulled him down pressing her lips on his hard. He groaned and circled his arms on her waist. The other hand stressing on her arm up on her neck then tugged on her ponytail. Her black hair tumbling out of it's cage. He bit her lip and touched it at his tongue. She groaned and pushed him at the other side of the wall pressing her body into him. "Matt..." she pulled away breathlessly and pressed her head on his shoulder.

"God, Belle, I want you." he murmured huskily as he nibble on her ear.

"I...can't," she shook her head and pulled away.

He stopped her. "I know, I'm sorry."

"I have to go. Let's just talk another time." she said and walked away. She has a swollen lips, flushed face and confused eyes. What the hell did I just do?

"Isabelle?" her mom stared at her with an incredible expression.

Belle was standing outside their house facing her mother.

"Who is it, Lydia?" someone called from inside.

"It's your daughter, Jack." Lydia answered.

"What!" someone shouted and there was shuffling and he too was staring at Belle.

"What? You guys aren't letting me in?" she raised an eyebrow at them.

"What are you doing here, Isabelle?" Jack asked with a creased eyebrows.

"I was suspended." Belle stated.

Jack's eyes flared and Lydia gasped. "What!" Jack shouted.

"Stop shouting, will you. It's irritating." Belle snapped at them.

His father slapped her in the face and dragged her inside. His fingers clenched on her arm. Lydia tried to stop her husband but it was no use. He was so strong.

"What did you do this time?" he asked with rage.

"Find it out yourself." she said.

He turned her face to face him. His other hand clutching her in the side of her face. "You bitch, I gave you everything and this is what you give back to me? What about the company? When are you ever going to learn? You can't be expelled on that school or else it's better you won't study at all."

She didn't said anything and just stared at him.

"You can't stay here." he said and pushed her. She stumbled down and her mother quickly helped her. "Go somewhere else and don't come back here until you graduate."

"But I'm just a freshman! I have three more years." Belle argued.

"That's your problem. We'll send you money but don't ever come back here if you aren't going to be a valedictorian." he said. "I'll send some people to check out on how you're doing and certainly no boyfriends and even friends. They're all just bothersome people."

"You're insane!" Belle shouted and walked out the house slamming the door behind. Her mother was going to follow her when she was stopped by Jack's booming voice. "Don't you dare, Lydia!"

Belle was sitting at the park after what happened with her step-father and mother. "Why the hell does mom married that bastard?" she muttered as she pulled out her ipod. "He can't hurt me, he's not even my father." She glared and put on the earphones and remembered Matt.Another problem, she sighed and laid on the bench closing her eyes.

After a few hours, she woke up and sat. She looked at her watch that indicated its 6 in the evening. "Ah...where am I going to stay?" Her phone rung. "Yeah?" she answered.

"Hi Belle," Steve greeted.

"'ssup?" she asked casually.

"Heard you got suspended..." he trailed.

"Yup, I did." she said.

"Ah..." he said and a pause. "Why?"

"None of your business," she said.

"Oh, right. None of my business." he said. "So...where are you staying?"

"Ah..." she bit her lip. "Somewhere out here,"

"What do you mean somewhere out there? They said you go home," he said with a worried tone.

"Well, my step-father doesn't want me staying at his house." she said. "And mom wouldn't do anything then dad..." she trailed. "We haven't talk for a while but he would've been glad if I called which I wouldn't do."

"Then..." Steve has uncertainty in his voice. "Where are you staying?"

"Told you, somewhere here." she said with a shrug as she gather her things and stood up. "Hey, I have to go-"

"Wait," he stopped her from hanging up.

"What? Do it faster, I think I'll look for a job for just a week." she said.

"You...can stay here at my place. I wouldn't mind and I live alone plus there's extra space." Steve said.

"Stay at your place? You're at school, right?" she raised an eyebrow.

"I went home. I am suspended for three days." he explained.

"Oh...with Matt?" she inquired.

"Yeah, he too but don't worry, we didn't said why we fought 'cause that would've drag you in the problem." he said.

"Ah...thanks and about the place..." she trailed thinking. "I'll call you if I'll stay."

"Okay, be careful." he said.

"'bye,"

She looked around. "Work, work, work..."

She went inside a restaurant where there is a sign that they needed a waitress soon as possible. She got hired and was working when three very familiar boys walked in.

"Belle?" Chase asked.

"Hey," Belle greeted. "Are you ready to give your order?"

"Can I order you?" Nathan grinned at her.

Matt punched him in the arm. "Drop it, Nathan. You still owe me."

"Sorry," Nathan said and winked at Belle. "What are you doing here, Belle?"

"Working," Belle said, glancing at Matt who was staring at her.

"Of course you're working, I can see that but why are you working?" Nathan asked.

"I need money. Jack busted me out of the house and said I can't stay there and he didn't give me money." Belle shrugged. "Come on, I have lots to do, give your orders."

Matt ignored what she last said. "You mean your dad kicked you out of your house?"

"Not my dad, my step-father," she frowned. "The orders, please."

They gave their orders and Belle walked away. After a few minutes, she came back with the food.

"Yum, yum." Chase dug in. "Where are you going to stay? You can't go back to the dorm 'cause well, you're suspended and you were supposed to be home."

"I'll find that out myself." Belle answered.

"Why don't you just stay at Matt's house. He lives alone and it's big, two people can fit there...especially at the bed." Nathan laughed.

Belle smiled at his joke then shook her head. "I can't. I'll just stay maybe...at a motel. There's lots of it nearby."

"You are not staying at any motel." Matt stated.

"What?" Belle raised an eyebrow at him. "You can't judge what I do and what I don't."

"Just stay at his place so he wouldn't be worried." Chase translated. "Plus, you can't go at the motel all alone, it's embarrassing."

"Guys, cut the lame jokes and your dirty minds." Matt sighed heavily. "So...are you staying with me or not? It's better and cheaper that way."

Belle sighed. "I'm going back to work. I'll tell you later if you can wait." she turned and walked away feeling her heart beating faster than usual.

"I can always wait for you," she heard Matt said.

Belle ran her hands through her hair after a tireless evening. She went out and was going to look for a motel when she met Matt's eyes leaning at a car. "Oh..." she muttered unable to believe what she's seeing. She approached him and stared. "What are you doing here?"

"You told me to wait, remember?" Matt said with an amused expression. "Hop in," he opened the door and grabbed her duffel bag throwing it inside.

"Uh..." she tilted her head but followed.

He went inside the car and drove.

"Where are we going?" she asked after an eerie silence.

He glanced at her and grinned. "Home,"

She stared at him and looked away while clearing her throat as her heart beats faster than before. "Okay then, we're going home so...does that mean I'll be staying at your place the whole week?"

"That's what it looks like." he shrugged. "And by the way, don't worry, I won't take advantage of us living together though I do want you." he said casually as if it was nothing.

She blushed. "Whatever, I'm not saying anything and you're so defensive. You're the only one thinking like that."

"Seriously?" he raised an eyebrow. "I'll bet you were with me on that mind level."

She stuck her tongue and he laughed. "No way."

--------------

Belle slept on the guest room of the huge house of Matt. They ate and watched TV then headed for their rooms with a tense goodnight. The next morning, Matt was woken up by a doorbell. He went down and opened the door facing his best friends and two girls.

"Morning, bro." Nathan greeted.

"Hi," Chase said and they both made their way inside sliding beside Matt.

"What the-"

"Girls, come in." Nathan called.

The girls giggled and went in.

"What the hell are you guys doing this early?" Matt asked frustratedly.

"We want to play a game." Chase said. "Where's Belle?"

"Sleeping," he said.

"I'll wake her up." Nathan volunteered.

"Don't you dare." Matt threatened. "She's tired. Let her sleep."

"Ohhh...sorry," Nathan mumbled with a grin. "Let's eat breakfast then. Oh wait, I haven't introduce you to this lovely ladies. This is Angel, my girlfriend." he winked at her and she giggled. She's blonde and model type with skinny everything.

"This is Ashley, she's mine." Chase introduced draping an arm on her shoulder. She's red hair and skinny like Angel but with much more curves.

"Okay, I never knew you guys were courting someone..." Matt trailed.

"That's cause you're busy with dear sexy goddess Belle," Nathan explained.

"Wait," Angel said. "He's dating Belle? As in Isabelle the weird one with glasses?"

Matt raised an eyebrow at her and nodded.

"Wow, you hit the jackpot. That girl is sexy and beautiful and no one was like can approach her with her aloof atmosphere though we know everyone was drooling at her whenever she walks by." Angel explained.

"Well, except for Steve. He's pretty much clinging on her though she wasn't that interested. They're like...just friends." Ashley shrugged. "So, you are her type. No wonder, you look perfect with each other."

It was a blast for Matt to know how popular Belle is. He was sure she was always at the background.

"She's seriously that popular?" Chase asked.

"Yeah," Ashley answered. "The other seniors, juniors and sophomores are swooning on her body and face. She's beautiful without that much effort when we take time retouching and exercising."

"She got swag." Angel second. "You guys didn't know that? Almost all girls are jealous of her since she entered this school and no one was brave enough to befriend her, court her and fight with her 'cause she's out of our league."

"Huh." Nathan said with an impressed expression. "Well, you treat her like a goddess."

"I didn't know that about her." Chase said with amusement.

Matt stared.

"Bro, you caught a big fish," Nathan slapped his back with a grin.

Belle went out of the room after wearing a short and a long blouse. She froze as she saw Matt and his friends with girls in tow.

"Uh..." she trailed not sure what to do whether to hide or stay.

"You're awake!" Nathan shouted and he grinned at her. "Come here, let's eat. We've been waiting for hours."

She went down silently then grumbled, "Who told you to wait for me?"

"Bad, Bad Belle." Matt said and touched the tip of her nose with his forefinger. "You shouldn't say that."

She blushed as she stare at him. She smiled and said, "Good morning?"

He grinned, "Good morning," he pulled her closer to him with an arm on her waist and gave her a peck before going towards the kitchen.

She smiled and followed settling herself on a chair. She glance at the girls who were staring at her. They smiled and she nodded. They ate silently with a tense atmosphere.

"So...Belle," Chase started. She stared at him. "This girls are Angel and Ashley. They study at our school."

Belle looked at the girls and smiled timidly. "Hi, I'm Belle."

"Hi Belle," the two greeted shyly.

"Ah...do you have work today?" Nathan asked.

"Tonight," Belle answered.

"So, you're free today?" Nathan's eyes twinkled.

"Uh-huh, kinda." she said. "Why?"

"Let's have fun!" he blurted.

"Uh..." she glanced at Matt who was looking at them quietly. He shrugged. "Okay,"

"Yes!" Nathan shouted. "Let's go."

"Uh....can I take a bath first?" Belle asked.

They all laugh. "Of course you can. Sorry! I was just so excited." Nathan said with a grin.

Belle rolled her eyes and went to her room. She took a bath and changed. ((What she wore=http://www.myfashionbeautytips.com/wp... ))

She went down and Nathan whistled, "Ms. Fashionista."

She grinned at him and rolled her eyes. They rode Nathan's jeep and stopped outside a mall. "Let the game begin."

They planned to watch a movie and then eat after that. The sitting arrangement was made by Nathan with him, Angel, Belle, Matt, Chase and Ashley according to sits.

They watched a scary movie but nothing happens between Belle and Matt apart from the other couples. They stopped to eat at a restaurant.

"Let's play a game," Angel purred.

They all stare at her and Nathan grinned. "I've a good idea."

"Yeah? Your good ideas never are good ideas." Matt said. "What is it?"

"Truth or Dare," he smiled and glanced at Chase who also smiled.

"Yeah, that would be fun." Chase second. "Who's in?"

"I'm in." Angel and Ashley said.

"Me too," Chase said.

"Me either." Nathan said and looked at Belle and Matt. "You guys joining?"

Belle shrugged.

"I'll take that as a yes." Angel winked at her and Belle rolled her eyes.

They stare at Matt. "Count me out." he said after a few second.

"What?" Nathan frowned.

"Then this won't be fun." Chase said. "I know, we'll just put Matt's dares on Belle..."

"Fine." Matt glared at Chase. "I'm joining."

"Okay let's start." Nathan said with a grin. "Belle, truth or dare?"

"Truth," Belle said.

"Are you and Matt dating?" Nathan asked. All of them staring at her.

"No." she answered without a beat. They all frowned.

"Next, Matt...truth or dare?" Chase asked.

"Truth."

"Are you ever going to court Belle?" Chase pointed out the ever.

"Yeah," Matt said with a shrugged.

The others grinned and chided. "When is that?" Angel asked.

"Sorry, I already answered." Matt said with a smile.

They frowned. "Okay, next." Ashley said.

After answering the question, Nathan said again. "Belle, truth or dare?"

"Truth." Belle answered, bored.

"Sorry, honey, no choosing of truths twice." he winked.

"What? There isn't that rule." Belle said. "You never said any."

"Well...I just did." Nathan said with an amused expression.

"Dude-" Matt started but was cut off by Belle's grumbles.

"You asked me truth or dare when there is only dare as an option. Fine, dare. Bring it on." Belle said crossing her arms on her chest.

Nathan laughed and looked around before spotting a group of boys not far from them. "I guess this won't hurt since you aren't dating anyone, right?" Belle nodded. "See that guys over there?" Belle spun around and looked at the group of boys. She gulped and nodded feeling something bad is going to happen. "The one that looks extremely bored and holds a phone? Kiss him. Not just a kiss. Torrid deep kiss that will last for ten seconds and up. Are you in?"

Matt glared at him. "Nathan, don't."

"What? It's just a game. She can always back out." Nathan raised his hands in surrender.

Belle stood but Matt pulled him back on chair. "What do you think you're doing?"

"Kissing," Belle shrugged. "It's just ten seconds."

"Not just ten seconds." Matt said a little loudly. "What if that guy is a pervert? What if he kidnaps you? What if he drugs you?"

"Seriously? It's just a kiss and we're playing a game, Matt." Belle frowned at him.

Nathan cleared his throat. "Guys, we're so attracting people. Lower voice a little, please."

Belle and Matt glared at him. "What's your problem?" Belle asked Matt.

"You are my problem." Matt said. "Why the hell are you so stubborn? I said stop it. You're not going over there and kissing that jerk."

"How do you know he's a jerk?" Belle asked him with a furrowed expression.

"I don't know. He seems like it." Matt shrugged.

"Seems like it, huh?" Belle raised an eyebrow at him.

"Okay, stop guys. Let's stop playing." Nathan said. "Let's just go."

They all stood up and walked away. Belle glanced at the boy he was supposed to kiss. He walked towards her and gave her a card. "Do you want to be a model?"

"Uh..." she trailed not sure how to continue. Model? Her? "I'm not the model type,"

"Girl, you're perfect. You'll be the diamond of the model world once you got in front of the camera. Think about it. I'm Jack Newton. Just call me if you've decided and I know you're still on high school so probably best if you finish first."

Belle nodded absentmindedly. "Belle?" Angel called her. "Let's go. They're all waiting." Belle nodded and bowed a little at Jack before heading away.

Belle sat on the couch. She has her legs tucked on her body and her arms wrapped around her. Matt and her were watching TV at the middle of the night. They were watching Paranormal Activity 1.

Belle yawned.

"Sleepy?" Matt asked.

She shook her head. "Nah, it's just boring."

"Yeah but...kinda creepy." he shivered and moved closer to her.

"What the hell? Are you scared?" Belle laughed.

"Of course not," Matt said defensively.

"Yes you are." Belle laughed louder.

"I'm so not." Matt said. He turned off the TV and stood up.

"Where are you going?" Belle asked.

"Sleeping,"

"Why did you turn off the TV? I'm watching." Belle said with a grin.

He raised an eyebrow at her. "I'm not scared.

She giggled. "Fine, you're not just because you said so..." she winked at him. "Good night, see you tomorrow. I'll just watch a little."

"Good night, feel free to visit me up there." Matt winked at her and dipped down giving him a peck.

She pulled him closer and kissed deeper. She pulled back and winked at him.

"Whoa, that's...hot." he said.

"Go take your cold shower." she laughed.

He frowned and went upstairs then stopped just halfway up. "Are we dating?"

"We certainly are..." she grinned at him.

After a few hours of surfing the channels, Belle got bored and closed the TV. Just as she was planning to go sleep, the door opened. She froze and faced a blonde girl. "Uh...excuse me?"

"Oh, sorry. I didn't know anyone else was here. I thought only Matt was here and he was sleeping 'cause I called him earlier and he wasn't answering..." the girl trailed.

"You are?" Belle raised an eyebrow at her.

"Juliet," she smiled and offered a hand. "I'm Matt's fiancee."

Belle froze. "Excuse me, what?"

"Fiancee." she smiled and dropped her hand. "Are you her girlfriend of the month?" she shrugged and sat down. "He always changes girlfriend every month and they were just like. Simple and decent. Where is he?"

Belle shook her head trying not to cry. Fiancee? That jerk. After all what happened between us? He's a jerk. I hate him. Wait, is this girl even saying the truth? Yes, of course she is. She even has a key to his house. "He's sleeping already. Upstairs,"

Juliet nodded. "I haven't heard your name yet, honey?"

"Belle," she said trying to be brave in front of the girl.

"Hi Belle, I'm Juliet San Diego." she introduced. "We've been engaged since like we were little and they said we can call the wedding off when we find the girl/boy we really love but I guess it's not coming 'cause Matt hasn't been calling the wedding off plus I think he's now in love of me." she shrugged casually. "We've been together for years and-"

Belle's phone rung. "Sorry,"

"Go on, go on." Juliet smiled at her.

"Hello?" Belle asked.

"Belle? Honey, you're step-dad's dead and your mother's in the hospital. Come here, quick." her father said and told her where to go.

She hung up and froze. Her mother's in the hospital.

"Are you okay?" Juliet asked.

She shook her head and went upstairs taking her duffel bag and changing on jeans and shirt. "Juliet, tell Matt I won't be back again. I have something to do and tell him I'm sorry for misinterpreting whatever happened between us. Tell him goodbye for me,"

Juliet just nodded and watched her leave.

Belle hailed a cab and went on the hospital where her father told her. She went out hurriedly and fling herself on her father's arms. "Where's mom? Is she alright? Where is she? Tell me she's okay."

"She'll be alright, sweetie." her dad soothed her. "It's just that. We need money for her operation."

Money, money...Jack...model. Her mind spinning. "Tell them to do the operation. I can find the money. I have it."

"What? Where will you get it? It's too big. I don't even have that kind of money. Plus your mom needs to be transferred to another bigger hospital." her dad explained/

"Just do what I say." Belle snapped. "I can have the money, I promise. Mom will never leave us."

Belle parked her Porsche outside their house. She went inside and called her mother. "Mom?"

"Hey sweetie," her mom called from the kitchen. "Come here and eat. I know you're hungry."

She dropped her side bag on the sofa and went on the kitchen facing the feast in front of her. She frowned at her mom, "Mom, do you think I can eat all this? I'm eating just a few. You know I have a shoot tomorrow and I can't be a bloated girl on the swimsuit."

Her mom waved her off. "You're not the only one eating. Your dad's colleagues are coming along with their sons and daughters. It's gonna be a party," she smiled at her. "And I expect you on your best behaviors."

"Mom," she went to her mother and hugged her. She kissed her cheek. "When did I become harsh to visitors?"

"Hmmm...let me think," Lydia grinned. "Since you got heartbroken with that Matt guy from high school."

Her eyes changed from hurt and then turned back to normal. "Don't mention him in front of the table. The food will be spoiled. Anyway, I'm over him." she sat on one of the chairs and started devouring a piece of chicken. She mumbled half-chewing the food. "When are those guests coming?"

"About an hour now..." her mother trailed.

"Why are they even so special that you've to cook this many?" she frowned and was about to get rice and shook herself away. "No rice,"

"They're from different countries. You know your dad, travels mostly every time." she said.

That's why you divorced him and get on with that bastard. Not to be cruel but I'm glad he's dead. He's a jerk and he endangered your life. He drove like those madman and even if you plead he wasn't stopping. I'm glad he died, she thought but didn't said anything. Her mother would be angry when she hears what she said. "They might speak different languages so I'm not expected to socialize that much, right?"

Her mom laughed. "They're all speaking in English so you are certainly expected to socialize and I heard some of them studied at the same school as yours..." she trailed.

"Not-" she started but her mom cut her off.

"No Matt has been said." Lydia assured. "Why can't you just go to him and tell him you love him so this will be over."

"As if that's that easy." Belle frowned. "He's not at this country. Maybe somewhere along with his wife and I'm not supposed to say I love him 'cause I don't now." she frowned again as she felt the lies she just said. "I swear I'm not lying," she convinced herself.

"I didn't said anything," her mother said and came back to her cooking. "Now go and change. Make yourself presentable or maybe rest a little since you're always presentable." her mom winked at her. She laughed and went to her room. She soaked on the tub and thought about what happened between her and Matt. Nothing really happened. A few kisses and all but they weren't really officially together at the eyes of the others...

Belle changed into a black casual dress and tied her messy hair in a messy way. She put on an eye glass so a few can recognize her. She went down soon as the doorbell rung. She saw her mother almost at the door and watched as her father came in along with the guests. She hugged her father and kissed him on the cheek.

“Dad,” she greeted casually.

“Honey, have you eaten?” her dad asked.

“Yes, have you?” she asked back with a grin.

“Nope,” her father said. “Are you serving me?”

“No, go entertain your guests. I’ll be there later.” She stuck her tongue at him and smiled.

She hung around the stairs looking at every guest and nodding at them then she spotted Chase. She froze and saw him with Ashley. She thought they might not recognize her. The two strode towards her and grinned taking her in from head to toe.

“Long time no see, Belle.” Chase started. “Remember me?”

Belle stared at them. “What are you doing here?”

“I worked with your father.” He explained. “So you do remember me. How about my wife?”

She almost choked on what she heard. “Your wife?” she glanced at
Ashley. “Hi Ash, how are you?”

Ashley smiled. “I’m fine and you look scorching sexy.” She grinned and looked at her. “My prediction was right, you were meant to be a sexy model.”

She grinned at the compliment. “When did you guys got married?”

“Soon as out of school,” Chase explained.

Ashley laughed, “He can’t wait. He proposed after a few days when we graduate in college.”

“Children?” Belle asked.

“Not yet but I hope soon.” Chase said.

Belle laughed. “Then you probably should work that out more.”

Ashley also laughed. “Yeah we will.”

Chase raised an eyebrow at his wife. “What did you said? We will?” he winked at her and gave her a sweet kiss and murmured, “I’ll keep that in mind in case you got enough of me.”

“I never will.” Ashley said and kissed him.

Belle coughed. “Go get a room.”

The two laughed. “Oh,” Chase said remembering something. “Nathan is here too. He’s outside probably. His wife’s sick.”

“We’ll just go eat.” Ashley said.

Belle nodded and soon after the couple leave, Nathan and Angel went in. They smiled widely at Belle as they saw her.

Nathan whistled, “You’re still hot as the sun.”

“Nathan!” Angel scolded. “Say that again and I’m leaving. Hi Belle, how are you? Oh my God, you’re so beautiful and sexy. The posters and magazines don’t do justice. You’re better in person.”

Belle laughed at the compliment. “That’s too much, Angel. And when did you guys got married?”

“A year ago.” Nathan explained. “She’s hard to catch and many things happened.”

“Just a year,” Belle answered. “Children?”

“We’re still on honeymoon,” Nathan winked at Angel.

Angel rolled her eyes. “I want my baby to look like you.” She blurted out suddenly.

Nathan and Belle froze at what she said. “Excuse me, what?” Nathan asked dumbfounded.

“I said…I want my baby to look like Belle. She’s so beautiful and all…” Angel trailed still looking at Belle.

“Are you…saying you’re pregnant right now?” Belle looked intently at Angel as she nodded then she looked at Nathan’s shock expression.

Nathan leaned on the wall as he stumbled. “Oh my God! YES!” he shouted.

Angel jumped. “What the hell? Why are you shouting?”

“We’re having a baby!” Nathan shouted again and spun Angel around. She put her down and kissed her in the lips. “I can’t believe it. I’m going to be a father. Why didn’t you tell me?”

Angel shook her head. “I thought you knew…”

“You didn’t tell me.” Nathan sulked.

“Sorry, honey.” Angel apologized. “I’m being forgetful, emotional and having an intense liking with Belle.”

“Congratulations, you guys.” Belle smiled at them. “Now go get your baby full.”

The two laughed and went towards the kitchen. Belle sighed and went outside. She sat on the rocking chair tucking her legs up and thinking about Matt. She missed him badly. She hated him yet she wants to see him but if she does, she knew she’ll fell over again. It’s fine this way even if everyone already has their ‘happily ever after.’

"Belle, aren't you cold out there?" her father called from inside.

She looked up and grinned at him. "Sorry, I said I was helping to entertain your guests..."

"No, it's fine. I knew you have lots to think of..." her father, Michael sat beside her and draped his arm around her shoulder, pulling her closer. "Especially since you saw those friends of Matt."

She frowned. "How did you even know about Matt? You weren't here when we got involved plus mom shouldn't have known too..."

"Even if I'm not here. I knew everything that has been happening with my daughter." he explained. "And I told your mom since you were so depressed even when she got better. She even thought you wanted her death."

"What!" Belle shouted. "That's insane and how did you know? Were you spying at me before?"

He shrugged. "Probably,"

"That's overacting," Belle glared.

"It's not. I wouldn't have find out what happened if I didn't do it. How did I do it? I have ties all around and gadgets that are simply not yet available all over the world. I want to protect you and that's what I did." he said and sighed. "I don't want that kid-man to be anywhere near you ever again. He doesn't deserve you."

"Dad, he's probably be married right now so he's not anywhere coming in anyway near me." Belle reasoned.

"Though you wish he would..."

"I don't." she lied.

"Liar, I know my daughter's strained voice when she's lying."

"My voice is not strained and I don't lie." she defended.

He snorted and stood up. "Anyway, he's not worthy of you. If he comes back, I'm not accepting him and I'll even move heaven and hell if that would take to separate you guys. Remember that."

She frowned. "Dad, that's overreacting like a hundred percent."

"Just telling you my decision before you even ask." he said and went inside. He stopped before the door. "It's cold out there..."

"I know." she said.

Her father nodded and went inside.

"But I don't feel it..." she trailed after a little while.

After a few hours, Nathan went outside and saw Belle. He approached her and sat beside her

"My God, Belle, you're so cold." he said as he touched her arm.

"I am?" Belle asked. She looked at her hands that is now shaking. "Oh..."

"What do you mean 'oh'?" Nathan frowned and covered her with his jacket. "Are you going to freeze yourself to death? Darn, he'll kill me."

"Who?" Belle asked.

"Nothing," he said. "What are you doing here, anyway?"

"Thinking, I think." she said.

"Thinking about what?"

"About things,"

"Things like..."

She grinned. "Things you shouldn't concern yourself with."

He rolled his eyes. "Very snobby. Is this what I get because you're now Miss Popular?"

"Nope, not really. I was just thinking about...work and my lifeless life that doesn't even sounds like one since it's lifeless." she explained.

"Work? I have an offer, can you shoot a cover for my magazine? It'll only take an hour," he said.

"Talk to my manager," she said and grinned. "Just kidding. When is it, my friend?"

"Two days from now." he explained. "Can you? I mean I'll go over tomorrow to your office to talk to your manager and if the shoot can suit your thing. It's not really that daring. You just have to pose on a two piece on a motorcycle. Can you?"

She nodded. "I'll be fine with it. You're the first person to get a favor," she winked at him.

"Thank you very much," he hugged him. "Ah...you're so cold."

"I need heat," she explained after hugging back.

"Want me to call someone to make you hot? No, you're already hot. What's the right word?"

"She needs love." Angel said from the door. She grinned at them.

Belle rolled her eyes and stood up. "I don't know that word. Sorry," she waved at them and stood up.

"Honey, we have to do something about them." Angel said to Nathan after Belle left.

"I know the thing..." Nathan winked at her. "I always wanted to be the matchmaker. Just like a cute cupid." He opened his phone and called, "Hi Matt, guess what...something just made me darn so happy. If you got wrong on guessing, you'll bring me flowers after two days on my office...deal?...okay, what's your guess..." he laughed. "Sorry, no...the news is Angel's preggy and I'm going to be a father!...bring me flowers on my office after two days...bye." he hung up and winked at his wife.

"Belle, darling, when did you ever give favoritism to your sponsors?" Jack asked Belle while talking with Nathan.

Belle laughed. "He's my friend...plus it was just for an hour."

"You can't decide without me..." Jack said.

"I didn't decide. I told him to talk to you and you said yes, right?"

"Yes, that's because you said he was your friend. You threaten me that you won't take projects if I won't clear that day with him." Jack said with a frown.

"I didn't threaten you." Belle said with a wink at Nathan.

"You did with eyes and the way you said the arrangement." Jack frowned.

"Well," Belle shrugged. "I knew you can make time for him."

Jack frowned. "Okay, okay, but it's daring. You're not wearing anything except a two piece suit."

"I know, would I agree if I was required to wear nothing." Belle said.

"And I wouldn't ask if I know she can't do it." Nathan said.

Jack frowned. "Fine, tomorrow's the shoot at his company. It'll take an hour." Jack looked at Nathan. "You're providing the photographer, right? If he didn't get the best shot after an hour, we're leaving, understood? An hour,"

Nathan nodded. "Okay, okay. It'll be finish before it even started."

"What?" Jack asked confused. Nathan shrugged.

------

The day of the shoot, Belle was wearing a red swimsuit and has her black hair wet and dripping. "I'll catch a cold," she muttered at Nathan.

Nathan laughed. "I'm sorry. The photographer said it will look more cooler. Want me to turn off the aircon?"

"No, I'll be fine," Belle said as she sat on the motorcycle. The photographer started making instructions and after awhile taking pictures of Belle.

----
Matt frowned as he entered Nathan's office carrying flowers. "Why the hell did I get tricked by him? And what the hell is with this flowers?" he shrugged and sat on the desk waiting for Nathan as he called him. "Maybe for his wife. Nathan?"

"Yes?" Nathan asked in a hush tone.

"Where the hell are you? Don't tell me you forget that you asked me to bring flowers for you this day. I take promises seriously." Matt snapped.

Nathan laughed then said, "Go ask my secretary where the shoot is. I'm here." he hung up just after Matt heard a 'Nice Belle' at the other end of the line.

Matt frowned. "I'm being paranoid. Belle?" he frowned again and went to Nathan's secretary. He went down and frowned at the large crowd. "Who the hell is having this goddamn shoot?" He stopped just in time to see Nathan. He was pointing at someone. He glared at him as he looked at the girl he's pointing at and froze. The girl he's pointing at. The girl he's looking at. The girl wearing a flimsy swimsuit. The girl posing in front of all these people. The girl having the goddamn shoot...is none other than Belle.

Belle froze in her place as she felt disturbing presence nearby. She only got that thing when...Matt was there and he certainly can't be here among the crowd. She shivered and that instantly caught Jack's attention. He told the photographer if it will still take long 'cause it has been an hour and a half and he wasn't still finish. Jack tried to put the shoot off but Belle insisted on finishing it. After her second shiver, the photographer called a wrap and Jack hurried carrying a robe to her.

"God, you're freezing." he said with a worried expression. "I swear if I remove your make up you'll look a hundred percent pale. This is your fault, Belle." he started scolding. "I told you to put this off. I told you that you shouldn't have done this."

"My head hurts," she frowned at him. She looked around and everybody was staring at her. All her fans. She can't disappoint them. She smiled at them and waved then her gaze froze at the man staring straight at her with a mixed expression on his face. Matt. Angry Matt. Concerned Matt. Longing Matt. Happy Matt and many other emotions crossed his face then he strode straight at her and grabbed her in the elbow. She flinched. "What do you think you're doing?"

"Dude, back off." Jack tried to pry him away from Belle. "I'll call security."

"No, I know him." Belle said to Jack then glanced back at Matt. Her heart skip a beat.

"Oh you do, I thought you've forgotten me." he said sarcastically.

"What are you doing?" she asked, her eyebrows furrowed.

"What are you doing?" he asked back with more force on the word 'you'. His eyes burn daggers straight at her.

"Why are you asking what I asked." she snapped. "I asked first so you answer first."

He frowned at her then looked around and for an instant heartbeat, she was on his arms. She released a yelped and then shut her mouth soon as they caught attention. Nathan started smiling around chanting, "Couples fights. Just couples fights."

Belle thrash around. "What do you think you're doing? Put me down!"

"Shut up or I'll kiss you..." he said under his breathe walking towards the elevator.

"You wouldn't dare." she challenged with a smirk.

He laughed sarcastically then glare down at her. "Try me. Just try me, Belle." He tapped his foot impatiently. The people inside the elevator staring at them and some even taking photos.

The way he said it made her shut up. She looked around just not at his angry eyes. "Wow, now I'll be on the front page of those magazines again plus a trending." she muttered. "Where are you even taking me?"

"Nathan's office. I'll bet we'll be alone there." he simply said.

Soon as they enter the office, he dropped her on the desk and she glared at him. "What do you think you're doing?"

"Saving you from what you're doing." he said.

"What do you mean what I'm doing. I'm working."

"Working on your underwear."

She rolled her eyes. "I'm a model. Want me to spell that out to you? M-0-D-E-L. And since when did you even have the right to question my work?"

He stopped whatever he was going to say because she's right. He doesn't have a say on what she does. "Why did you leave me?"

She raised her hands sarcastically. "Oh great, change of subject." she snapped and drop down the desk. "That's none of your business."

"It's my business 'cause it involves me...plus..." Matt glared at her and enclose her with both of his arms on her side clutching the desk. He inched closer at her emphasizing every word he will say. "I. Don't. Like. Your. Work."

She stared at him then the door opened. "Uh...excuse me?" It was Nathan. "Belle's being called. She has to change to a more warmer clothes..." he smirked at their stance. "Unless you're already providing greater heat."

Matt glared at him and looked back at Belle who was still staring at him with a hurt expression. "I know." she said bitterly not daring to look at him. "My work is disgusting. It's low profile and a disgrace every way you look at it 'cause I'm not high class like you are..." she pushed him away and walked out. Matt was going to defend himself that that wasn't what he meant but she was already gone.

"Man," Nathan shook his head. He looked at Belle's retreating figure then back at Matt. "You messed up."

"Damn it! You should have warned me that I'll face something like that!" he ran his hands on his hair.

"Well, I didn't know you'll have the guts to come if I said she'll be here." Nathan shrugged. "At least you met again and already and I'll bet you aren't standing around watching guys drool over her do you?"

He shook his head. "Certainly not."

"Yeah, you shouldn't. Even I, a married man drools with her." Nathan laughed at Matt's glare.

Belle frowned. She can't move. Her body hurts badly and she has a piercing head ache. Her head feels like a block and she just wants to cut it off. She's freezing and has curled up in sheets like a sardines but nothing is making her better. Her phone rung but she can't move to answer it so she just waited until it stopped so she can sleep again.

She is staying at her condo not at her parent's house. She seldom comes there only when they got visitor and her mom would feel lonely. She remembered what happened between her and Matt. He is disgusted with what her work is which she also thinks is really low but still...he doesn't have to say it like she's selling herself in front of all those people. And she was already planning on resigning maybe after a year and get a new job. She's smart and did finish college.

She sneezed and curled tighter as something cold blew at her body. She shivered and closed her eyes drifting into a nightmare.

--------------

Matt knocked in front of the office after being instructed to do so. He heard a silent come in and strode inside seating himself at the huge white sofa facing Jack.

"Oh, it's you." he said. "Uh...what can I do for you? Or do you want to introduce yourself? I'm Jack."

He nodded. "I'm Matt and I'm hear to ask where is Belle. I want to talk to her."

"Who are you to her?" he asked cautiously.

"I'm her..." he grinned at him. "Boyfriend,"

Jack stared at him then nodded. "Oh! You're name is Matt, right?" Matt nodded. "So it's you who she was always been depressed off."

"Excuse me, what?" Matt asked not believing what he said.

He shrugged. "You know, when you broke up before, she was like a robot. Doing things she just needed to do for the money so her mom would be well."

"What happened to her mom?" Matt asked, confused.

"Her mom almost died on a car accident with her stepfather and her father, you know, dad can't afford to pay the fees so she have to work and that where the modeling comes in." he explained. "You got back together, right?"

"Uh...not really."

"Well, you should. She was so depressed when you broke up. She can't even eat at all." he shook his head. "I don't want to see her like that again. Go to her house."

"Where is it?"

Jack gave him the address and Matt went off. It was just a small house without even a gate or any guards. How can a celebrity leave like that? Stalkers must have followed her here. He knocked but no one answered. He knocked again. Maybe she's out. "Belle?" he called a little too loudly.

No one answered and he shook his head. She's not here and just then, his phone rung. "Nathan?"

"Oh, glad you answered fast." Nathan said, his voice worried.

"Why?"

"Belle called sick." he stated. "She's in her house. Wait, are you there?"

"Yeah, I am. She's here? No one is answering." Matt said circling the house and back at the main door.

"She'll probably be sleeping. Her rooms on the second floor so it's hard to hear and she doesn't have doorbells as you can see." Nathan said.

Matt rolled his eyes. "How did you know about this?"

"I'm his stalker, duh!" he laughed. "Jack told me. He said Belle called like twenty minutes after you left to tell him she's sick but insisted she's alright."

Matt looked around and spotted a drawing on the wall. He looked closely at it and saw earphones. He smiled and then looked at it more closely. Well, that probably reminds Belle of him. He knelt down and sat at the porch. "I don't have a key and I can't barge in the window. I'm too big. I can't tear the door down, it's too large and thick wood."

"Maybe the key is under the rug where it says welcome," Nathan suggested.

He rolled his eyes and glanced at the rug beside him. "Who's dumb enough to do that?" he raised it and faced a small key. "Oh."

"What's with the oh?"

"It's here." he stated staring at it as if it'll disappear every minute now.

Nathan laughed. "Oh my God, Belle. She didn't."

"Yeah, she did." Matt said and grabbed the key. He stood up and placed it on the doorknob. "Now let's see if it's fake." he turned it and there was a click then he pushed the door open and it opened. "Whoa, it opened. Idiot Belle,"

"Not really idiot. I mean, who would think that someone is placing a key under the rug nowadays, huh?" Nathan said. "You smart dude didn't even think about and thought it was stupid. Only resourceful people like us thinks like that. But still...I didn't expect the key to be there. I mean, she's a celebrity duh! I bet she has lots of bodyguards and gates and locks."

"No bodyguard anywhere and certainly I didn't pass by any gates." Matt said. "I'm hanging up. I'll update you soon."
Before he end the call, he heard him say "Don't rape her, Matt." He rolled his eyes and scan the clean room. Nothing unusual except for the constant dullness around. Full of black and white things and no other color around.

He went upstairs and guessed the big white door is her room. He knocked but no one answered. He opened it and peeked inside. He saw Belle curled on the bed, shivering. Matt ran toward her and touched her in the forehead. He frowned and cursed. "What the hell have you been doing?"

She looked up at him with eyes half-closed. "Matt? Is that you?"

"Yeah, your savior."Belle sat on her bed, clearly not remembering anything that happens the past few days. She stare into her wall and ran her fingers on her hair. She looked at her cellphone and saw five messages. Two from Jack, one from her mother, two from her father. She toss her cellphone and remembered the last thing she saw is...Matt. "That was a dream, I think. He can't be here and...take care of me, right?"

She shook her head and stood up. She went to the bathroom and changed clothes. She went down and stopped in front of the sofa seeing a man sleeping there. "Whoa! Matt?" she pinched herself to prove she's not dreaming and she proved she's not because it hurts.

Belle walked towards him and looked at the clock, it indicates six in the morning. "How long have you been here, idiot? Don't tell me you took care of me?" She sighed and went upstairs grabbing a blanket and putting it on him. She shook her head as she stare at him. "You shouldn't do this." she whispered. "You shouldn't care about me or else...I can't forget about you." She touched his lips with her finger and stood up. She shook her head and prepared breakfast. She have work today.

---------

Matt remembered seeing Belle walking pass him in a blue dress. He sat up from the sofa and smelled something good. Food? Who cooked? He noticed the blanket draping above him. Who put this on me? Belle? He looked around and called, "Belle?" No one answered. He stood up and went to her room and she was gone. "Where is that girl?" His phone ring. "Nathan?"

"Belle's on work again." He said.

"Ah...so she's back. She didn't even wake me up. Just left me here." he frowned and went down towards the kitchen. There was breakfast for him there and a note. Thanks, "At least she left me a note and cook me breakfast."

"She did?" Nathan exclaimed. "Let me have one. Is that hot dog, egg or bacon?"

"Shut up," Matt laughed. "I'm not sharing and I hate sharing. How did you know she's at work again?"

"Well, I was keeping tabs on her manager, Jack. We've become friends and I almost visit regularly." he said. "Do you remember when we were on triple date along with Chase? The dare for Belle to kiss a guy?" Matt murmured a mmmm. "That was Jack and he said that was the first time he met Belle."

"Oh, really?" Matt asked. "He was that Jack?"

"Yup, he was that."

"So, where are they now?" Matt asked eating casually.

"In his office, they're discussing something and I think it'll take long. Something with Belle..." Nathan trailed.

"You don't know what that is?" Matt asked.

"I don't know...yet but I have a huge guess." Nathan said.

"What's your guess?" Matt asked, interested.

"She's giving up modeling." He dropped the bomb.

Matt choked. He coughed at what he heard. "She's what?"

"I think resigning on modeling."

"Why?"

"Because of...you probably."

"Is that for sure?"

"Nope, I told you it's a guess but that what it looks like when Jack went out earlier to ask for coffee. He looks stressed. Like losing a diamond and that diamond is Belle." Nathan explained.

"I like your conclusions but we don't know if that is a fact yet." Matt said.

"We'll find that out later but I think the conversation will still last for an hour. Want to come over here?" Nathan asked.

"Sure, where are you?" Matt asked.

"Outside Jack's office with his secretary." he laughed.

"Angel will kill both of you, dude!" Matt laughed.

"I'm not cheating."

"You're defensive meaning you're guilty." Matt said.

"Actually, I was just learning something from this girl."

"I wonder what you're learning from her?"

"See for yourself when you come here." Nathan said.

--------------

Belle tapped her feet. "What's the plan?"

"How can you drop something like this suddenly? Have you think about it?" Jack asked with a troubled expression.

"I certainly did." Belle said. "It's either I quit modeling without going on another career or I'll quit modeling and do something else. What do you think? Either way I'm quitting modeling. You know I hated it at the first place."

"Not really hated. Just not into it." Jack explained.

"Right, not into it and I got enough of the men fantasizing about me in their bed which isn't happening."

"Which man's bed are you going into anyway?" Jack asked. "Matt?"

"Certainly. If he let me..." Belle laughed at his expression. "Just kidding plus I think he likes sofa more than a bed with me."

"What the hell are you saying, Belle?" Jack asked more troubled. "You're so crazy with that guy. Why don't you just tell him you love him and get married."

"Wow, that's easy." Belle said sarcastically.

"I know, it's easy and yet you can't do it." Jack said.

"It's not easy." Belle stated.

"Let me tell him if you can't." Jack said.

"Shut up and let's stay on the matter at hand." Belle said. "What do you think? That's the best I can think of. And I'm smart enough to handle a business. I'm thinking of a resort..."

"Oh, a resort. That will be a big hit." Jack commented.

"Does that mean I'm out the modeling world?" she asked. "Am I?"

Jack stared at her and smiled. "I will miss you here. The company will surely lost many sponsors when you leave."

Matt froze at the sight of Nathan and the secretary he was talking about which was pregnant. Nathan glanced at him and grinned. "Come over, Matt."

He walked towards them silently then smiled faintly at the girl. "Hi, I'm Matt."

She smiled back. "I'm Diane."

"Yeah, she's Diane. A preggy Diane." Nathan commented. "Belle will be out for about three minutes from now. Jack just phoned her." he smiled at Matt and continued talking with Diane.

Matt didn't have to guess what he meant about learning something from Diane. He has a huge guess it was all about pregnancy since Angel was confirmed pregnant a few days ago.

The door opened and Belle stepped out with her radiating beauty. She looked around and met his eyes. She grinned at him and walked towards him.

"So, we're on smiling terms now." he said with a grin.

"Oh!" she said rather confused. "You don't want me smiling at you? Fine, no smiles then." her face turn to neutral soon as she said it.

He shook his head. "That's not what I meant...It's just that you were angry at me the last time we talked."

"Well, you shouldn't have known you were forgiven because you took care of me and the effort for finding a key that only a resourceful person should found." she said trying not to smile.

"I think that was my geniusness you have to thank for." Nathan interjected.

"Nathan, is that even a word?" Belle raised an eyebrow at him with glinting eyes.

Nathan laughed. "I don't know. It just came to mind as something like an adjective saying I'm a genius."

Belle rolled her eyes. "And why are you flirting with Diane?" she raised an eyebrow at him.

"I'm not flirting, Miss Belle. He was just asking about pregnancy because his wife is pregnant." Diane defended.

"Oh my God, you even got her to defend you." Belle shook her head at him. "Seriously, Nathan? Hands off Jack's employees."

Nathan scratched his head. "I wasn't really flirting, I promise and vowed to love only my wife and just my wife. I swear to God. I did."

Belle laughed and soon Matt also followed.

"Belle." Someone called.

They both jerked around to see Belle's father, Michael staring at Matt.

If looks could kill... Matt thought. You'll be dead by now.

Michael strode towards Belle and grabbed her by the elbow. "Hey, dad, what are you...it hurts." she flinched as she tried to let go of his hold.

"Uhmmm..." Matt trailed watching the two.

"Michael," Jack called. "What are you doing with Belle? You're hurting your daughter."

Michael, still staring at Matt let go of Belle. "Go home."

"What are you saying?" Belle frowned at him rubbing the part where he clutched.

"I said go home." Michael said.

"Why the hell are you ordering me?" Belle looked at him with a confused expression. "And why are you drilling holes into Matt's body with your stares?"

Michael looked at his daughter. "What do you think is the reason?"

She stared at him. "Mind to answer? I don't have any clue, dad and since this is the first time you met...you probably doesn't have any much reason unless...you met from another lifetime."

Nathan raised an eyebrow at her for her remarks.

"I don't need your sarcastic remarks, Belle." Michael snapped at her. "Now go home."

"I'm not a child for you to order around. I make my own decision and concern myself with things I should be involved with." Belle said with dignity.

"Belle," Michael sighed. "I don't want you anywhere near this guy. The fact that I see you with him is hard enough to handle. What's more with me finding out that he stayed at your house last night." he scolded. "You're not a child you say but why aren't you being responsible with your actions."

"Seriously?" she frowned at him. "Are we going over this? This I-don't-want-him-for-my-child thing?"

Matt watched the two silently then said, "Michael, sir, I can-"

"Shut up," Michael glared at him. "You're not on this."

"He is since we are talking about him." Belle said, irritated with his father. "I'm going home."

"Good, let's go." Michael said.

"I mean my home, my condo. Not yours and mom." Belle said.

Michael frowned at her. "But-"

"Dad, stop it." she said.

"He's not coming, is he?" Michael asked glancing at Matt.

"That's none of your business who I let inside my house." she said. "I can even let in a stalker, criminal, murderer for all you care."

"Belle," Jack warned.

Belle glanced at his father's hurt expression. "I'm sorry," she murmured.

He shook her head. "I know. I understand." he said. "I wasn't with you when you were little...I'm not allowed to judge how you live since I didn't before-"

"Dad, you don't understand. That's not what I meant." she pleaded.

"I know. I understand. I'm sorry." he said and walked away.

Belle frowned. "I'm a mess."

"You shouldn't have fought with your father." Matt commented.

Belle raised an eyebrow at her. "Duh, I fight for the sake of love." she rolled her eyes then walked away.

"Wait, what?" Matt asked but she was gone. He took a step to follow her but Jack and Nathan stopped her.

"Let her think..." Jack said. "and talk with her father." He went inside his office and then Nathan punched him on the shoulder playfully.

"What the hell!" Matt said after regaining his composure.

Nathan laughed. "Dude, get your mind off the gutter. We rejoice!"

"Rejoice?" Matt raised an eyebrow at him. "Rejoice for what?"

"Idiot, Matt." Nathan shook his head with a grin. "She just said she loves you."

Matt was silent for a moment thinking back about their conversation. "She did?"

Belle froze as she stood outside her house. Okay...something's wrong here. She doesn't know what was wrong but her gut says something like that. She debated whether she's entering or not and the entering to satisfy her curiosity won in.

She opened the door and looked around. Nothing looks different. She went to the kitchen and grabbed a knife. What? Gonna kill someone? She laughed in her head. As if I could kill someone...

She strolled upstairs and entered the bathroom. No one's around. She went inside her room and faced a small puppy in her bed. "Oohhh...what are you doing here?" she advanced towards it and dropped her knife on the floor. The dog started backing looking at her. "Are you scared? I'm sorry I scared you. Who let you in?" she carried the puppy in front of her and raised it just as she saw a glimpse of someone advancing on her on the mirror. She tried to scream but the sound was muted soon as the man covered her mouth with a napkin. She dropped the dog the same time as she felt unconscious with her surroundings.

---------------

Matt tilted his head still thinking about Belle. He has refused to have the drink Nathan was offering.

"I fight for the sake of love." What does she meant when she said that? Does that mean she loves him or what? He run his hands on his hair and started thinking again just as his cellphone rang. He saw the caller ID was Nathan and he frowned. "I don't have time for your games." he tossed his cellphone aside and after a few seconds, he called again. Matt frowned and turned his cellphone off. "What's wrong with him?"

He paced along the room and decided to go to Angel's house. He parked in front of her house and froze feeling something in his gut. Something's telling him she's in danger. He went out the car and opened the unlocked door. He ran around calling Belle's name repeatedly then froze in front of the her room seeing the bed with bloody white blankets and the figure tangled in its covers. He shook his head and started running to vomit on the bathroom.

"What happened, Belle?"

Belle flinched as she felt her head aches. She opened her eyes and saw nothing in the dark. She tried to sit up but she was tied onto something. "H-Hello?" she croaked in between dry throats.

The door opened instantly and light passes through. She squinted at the man in front of her and grinning. "W-Who are you?"

"Hi Belle," he approached her and sat on the side of the bed a few inches from her. "Don't you remember me?"

She squinted at him and gasped as he remembered the familiar features. "S-Steve?"

He laughed, "Surprise, surprise. It's me."

"Why are you doing this? Let me go!" she shouted at him.

"No, I can't." he shook his head. "I've waited too long. Just too long but you never gave me a chance. You never did."

She tried scream but Steve put a handkerchief on her mouth and she fell unconscious. He put a tape in her mouth and stared at her. After a few minutes, he brushed a hair away from her face and went out.

He picked up the phone and called Matt. Matt was the reason Belle never fell in love with her. He will kill him and have Belle for herself. He laughed and started dialing.

------------

A police line is around Belle's house. Michael and Lydia, along with Matt was sitting on her living room with a worried expression. Her parents left a little earlier after the polices left.

Matt called the police soon as he got his bearings after seeing the distorted body of a puppy on Belle's bed. It has been almost a day and no one was calling for maybe a kidnap ransom. The theory the police gave is that, Belle was kidnapped by a stalker and not someone who needs money. It happens often with popular people and Belle is really popular and very desirable.

Matt flinched at the thought. He can't think that someone is touching her or hurting Belle right now or else he'll go mad. He stared into space until his phone rung. He answered it lifelessly. "Hello?"

"Matt, are you okay?" Nathan asked. "Any news?"

"No, nothing." he said.

"I'm so sorry." Nathan said. "You'll find her. She'll be alright."

"I-I know." he said and hung up. After a few seconds, his phone rung again. It was Chase and he said the same thing. He was going to turn off his phone when it rung again. It was an unregistered number. "Hello?"

"Matt." A deep husky voice said.

"Who are you?" he asked.

There was a laugh at the other end of the line. "I'm the handsome kidnapper of your lovely Belle. Are you coming, knight and shining armor?"

Matt tensed. "W-Who are you?"

"I told you, the kidnapper." he said with a bored voice.

"What did you do with her?" Matt was now shouting with anger.

Steve just laughed. "Dude, calm down. I haven't done anything..." he trailed and coughed. "Yet. Nothing yet."

"Damn you!" Matt shouted gripping the phone in his hand. "Don't you dare touch her. I swear I'll kill you!"

He laughed. "You don't even know me and where I am."

"I don't care. I'll kill you with my bare hands if you touch her." he shouted. "Where is she?"

"She's here by my side. Want to here her?" he asked. "Or maybe not. Just come here and we'll know what happens. Does the prince survive and save the princess or will he die along with the princess? You choose..." he gave the address and hung up. Steve looked at Belle. She was crying. He took off the tape in her mouth.

"Fuck you! You should die. Don't bring Matt in here." Belle sobbed. ((Sorry for the bad words))

He stroke her cheek. "This will be fun. And another thing, does the prince suffer to death for the sake of the princess? Wait," he shook his head and leaned down kissing her in the lips. She struggled but he was stronger. "Since you aren't giving in to me...I'll just let you both die. If I can't have you...you should just die." He grabbed her hair and pulled her in a kiss again. He trailed kisses on her neck down her chest and stopped. "I don't want to do this with someone unwilling and you're not an exception." he stood up and went outside the room.

Belle sobbed silently and after a few minutes made an escape plan. She'll lead him on until she convinced him to remove the ropes so she could do more and protect herself but...can she do it? For her safety and Matt's? It felt like betrayal but...she has to do something.

Matt knew the drill. If he brings police with him...she dies if he don't...someone between them or they will together. At least Belle will have a chance to escape or something.

He left a note on the table where he will go and went to the place. It was a deserted house. He walked towards the porch and knocked. No one answered. He tried the knob and it opened with a deafening creak in the silence. He went inside and closed it silently and that's when he felt a cold point of the gun on the nape of his neck. He started to turn around. "Don't move." He stopped and tried to place the familiar voice.

"Who are you?" Matt asked trying to make his voice brave.

He laughed. "Belle remembered me but you don't? That's so sad, I was your biggest rival with dear Belle before. Wait, I wasn't even considered a rival since her eyes were only for yours."

Matt frowned trying to decipher the voice then his eyes widened with recognition. He turned around and saw him just as the gun was slapped on his head.

-----
Belle opened her eyes and looked around. She froze just as she caught sight of Matt beside her. "M-Matt," she croaked with dry throats. There was blood on his temple and she tried not to cry but she burst into tears.

He shifted beside her and cooed her, "Shhh...shhh...don't cry. I'm here. He's not going to hurt you. What did he do? Are you alright? Do you hurt somewhere?" She shook her head. "Stop crying, Belle. I hate to see you cry."

"B-But you're bleeding." she sobbed.

He felt the pain on his head but shook it off. "It doesn't hurt, babe. It's far from my heart and my heart is with yours. As long as you're not hurt, I won't feel hurt but seeing you crying is hurting me...badly...so stop crying."

She stared at her and stopped crying. "I'm sorry. I was planning to d-do something..anything but before I can even try it...he drugged me and I'm tied here."

"Don't worry. I'll try to save you." Matt said. He looked around and he was tied by a chain which was locked by a handcuff. The one that locks the chain together was the one that encased Belle's wrist and ties her to that spot. He looked at around and saw small debris of wood and papers around. He's smelling something...like...gas! He gasped.

"What is it?" Belle asked with a worried expression.

Steve is burning us alive. He shook her head. "Nothing."

Steve entered the room, grinning at them. "You guys are awake. Good!" he was smoking that made Matt tensed. He looked at the two then sat at a chair.

"Why are you doing this?" Bella asked.

"I told you, it's your fault." he said. "You made me think I have a chance with you but in the end it was always him." he glared at Matt.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to do that..." she trailed. "I always thought I make the right actions. I never showed I care. I never showed I'm interested. I never showed any responses with you 'cause I simply wasn't interested. I thought I made it clear."

"Yeah you did. And that's what make it worse." he shook his head. "You never showed interest but with Matt, you always does." He stood up and pulled out a knife out his pocket. He played with it.

Matt froze. "What are you doing?"

"Relax and watch." Steve said and approached Belle. She froze and tried to punch him but he was faster. He put her free hand up her head and pushed her on the wall, trapping her.

"Stop!" Matt shouted. "Don't touch her!" He jerked around trying to let his arms free but every move only does nothing and makes Belle's wrist turn around the handcuff.

Steve laughed. "So beautiful, isn't she? Why don't I damage just a few of her gifts." he trailed the knife's tip on her cheek down her mouth then her neck. He pressed a little harder and she flinched as blood dripped on her neck. She whimpered.

Matt shouted with rage. "Stop it! Goddamn it! Stop it! DO IT TO ME! Belle..." he was now on edge of tears, unable to help.

Steve stared at Belle's hurt face and then at Matt's rage and hurt. "Ah...you're destined lovers..." he trailed the knife again on her arm then pressed deeper. She shouted in pain just as she was able to push him away and his cigarette fell. It was just a blink when the fire spread like wildfire. It was all around and Steve panicked. He looked around and then stopped. He glanced at the two and smiled bitterly. "Goodbye..." he walked out and run away.

Belle coughed. "M-Matt," she called.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

She nodded and approached him. "We're dying."

He can't say no since it was plainly on obvious that they were then there was shifting. "Belle?"

"W-Wait," she murmured and coughed.

He turned around and watched as she tried unlocking the handcuff with a pin. "What are you doing?"

"I'm trying. I can't lose you. I can't die right now. I'm trying to save us." Belle said. "We're surviving this together. I love you, Matt."

“I can’t…” Belle frowned at it. Her eyes already filled with tears as she desperately tried to free them.

Matt shook his head. “Stop, y-you can’t...”
She sobbed as she dropped the pin and stared up at Matt. “I’m sorry…I’m sorry.”

Matt shook his head. “It’s alright, I love you, Belle. You know that, right?”

She shook her head. “I hate you. W-Why do you have to say that…right now?”

He laughed. “Because…” he coughed. “I have to or else you wouldn’t know. Wait, you know that right?”

Belle nodded and hugged him. The fire started to spread wildly as black smoke engulfed them. They coughed and soon were out of their selves.

-------------------------

Nathan shook his head as he stared at the burning building. He came soon as he read the note Matt left telling where he’s going. “Dude, you’re so messed up.” He went inside the building. He covered his mouth and nose as the black smoke spread through him. He looked around for any sign of moving. “Matt! Belle! Where are you?”

He looked around and coughed just as he saw a small movement within the thick smoke. He rushed towards them and saw them awkwardly hugging each other. He looked at them frantically assessing their positions. They were tied by a chain and were being locked by a handcuff. Nate shook Matt awake. “Matt! Matt, wake up. Where’s the key?”

Matt looked at him with a furrowed expression. He coughed. “W-What?”

“The key. Where is it?” Nathan shouted at him frantically. Matt didn’t sat anything and just stared at them. “F*ck it, Matt! Get over yourself. You’re dying here!” he punched him in the face.

Matt flinched and looked around.

“The key…” he trailed. “We don’t have it…Steve…” he said trying to think clearly.

“You don’t have the damn key?” Nathan frowned and looked around for something just as he remembered the ax on his car. He looked at Matt. “I’ll come back, dude.” He ran outside quickly and opened the trunk of his car carrying the ax inside. He looked at the two of them. “Dude…you’re so messed up.” He swung the ax at the chain and it broke. “Go out! Carry Belle!”

Matt went to action carrying Belle out of the fire. He stumbled out of the building and shook his head not believing that he just survived. He stared at Belle’s sleeping face and just wanted to laugh it all out when he remembered something. His eyes widened as he looked around. “Nathan?” He shook his head frantically. “You can’t be joking! NATHAN STEWART COME OUT HERE RIGHT NOW!”

Belle opened her eyes and faced the person she wanted badly to see. Wait, am I still alive? Am I now in heaven? Matt? Did I said that aloud? Am I talking right now? "Matt..."

"Belle..." he smiled at her. "Are you alright? Do you hurt somewhere?"

She shook her head. "Are you alright?"

"I'm alright."

"What happened?" she asked. "Where am I? How did we...survive?"

"Nathan saved us. He saw the note I left where we will be and you are at my house. You're not going back at your house in case there are more psycho's around that is obsessed with you."

She frowned as she remembered Steve. "Steve?"

"He's caught. Don't worry about it. Belle, I want to ask you something-"

"Belle!" her mom rushed inside followed by her father. Lydia gave her a hug and her dad stared down at her. "Are you alright, honey? Do you hurt somewhere? Your lungs? Can you breathe properly? How about your cuts? Oh my God! I'm so worried. Thank God you're alright." Belle knew what's coming after the worry remarks. She looked at her dad.

"Isabelle! How many times have we told you to have a bodyguard at your house? Look at what happened. What if Matt and Nathan hasn't come to save you? Do you know what that would've done to us? You're our only daughter and you're behaving like a child. What if-"

"Dad, I'm alright. Don't you dare ground me." she grumbled.

"I wasn't going to but know that you mention it-"

"No." Belle glared at him. "You're so not."

"Mr. Cooper," Matt called. "Can I talk to you in private?"

Michael stared at her and nodded as they went outside.

"Mom!" Belle frowned. "Can't you stop them? Dad will hurt Matt..."

"Why would your dad do that? He knows that if he hurts Matt, you're going to hate him forever." her mom said with a grin.

"Why do they even have to talk? It's not like they have something to talk about." Belle crossed her arms on her chest.

"Oh, they have something to talk about. Don't you know what that is?" Her mom asked.

She looked at her mom and shook at her head. "What is it?"

"It's a secret." her mom's eyes twinkled as she looked at Belle.

------------------

Matt and Michael sat at the living room and stared at each other. Matt sighed heavily as he perspire heavily because of nervousness. He has to do the right thing. He has to ask Michael for Belle's hand in marriage. He can't wait anymore now that he got a taste of how to lose someone you love.

"I think I already know what this is about." Michael said as he crossed his arms on his chest.

"If you know what I'm going to say, why don't you just give the answer." Matt said.

He laughed. "Why would I? You have to do the speech first because Lydia's father made me do the speech before saying his decision. Go on, I'm waiting."

He sighed. "Fine then. I want to formally ask for Belle's hand in marriage. I want to marry your daughter because I love her and I know she do love me too. I promise to take care of her until the day that I die and I promise never to hurt her again. I know you don't like me for her because I hurt her before but I will never do that again. So, what's the verdict?" they just both stared at each other when Matt added, "Even if you don't agree...we'll still be married. We can go to Vegas and got married. It's not like we're minors so if you want a peaceful wedding and be able to walk with her towards the altar...you should agree."

Michael laughed. "Even if you didn't say the last part, I was going to agree. My daughter love you badly so I'm not going to fight the power of love," he rolled his eyes. "So I'm allowing you to marry my daughter because I know that you can take care of her and will love her for the rest of your life."

Matt grinned at him. "Do I call you dad?"

-----------------------

Belle stared at Matt as he did too. Her parents left already and they were left alone. Matt clutched her hand and grinned at her. "What?" Belle asked. "You look weird. As in real weird. Don't worry, honey, you still look handsome with a goofy grin on." she nodded as if thinking hard.

He laughed. "Do you love me?"

She raised an eyebrow at him. "Seriously? You're asking that right now?"

"Yes, I asked right?" he countered with a roll of his eyes.

"Yes," she said plainly.

"Yes I am right or Yes you love me?"

"Yes to both." she grinned.

"I want to here you say it."

"Matt being picky, huh?" she teased. "Fine, I love you, Matt."

He just stared at her and grinned. "Good."

"Dude, you missed it. This is the part where you said I love you too, Belle."

He laughed. "Right, sorry, I forgot. Picky, huh? I, Matthew Dylan loves Isabelle Cooper and is now kneeling in front of her to ask her hand in marriage and she got no right to refuse 'cause she just said she love me to." he was now kneeling down at the side of the bed.

She gaped at him. "You're kidding, right?"

"No, I'm not." he said and pulled out a small box from his pocket. He opened it and there glint a small diamond ring. "Will you marry me Isabelle Cooper?" he grinned. "I just want to remind you that it's not a question but I just wanted to hear you say the y word."

She laughed. "Fine, I'm being pressured to say yes. Yes, I will marry you, Matt."

"Because..." he prompted.

She laughed. "What do you mean because? Do I have to answer that to?" he nodded. "Because I love you damn so much."

Matt grinned and put the ring on her finger and leaned down to give her a kiss. "You're officially mine." he murmured at her ear.

She grinned. "Yes,"

He winked at her and smirked. "So...I want a football team."