You help run your families business in a small town in Italy, and there is one frequent customer that seemed to only come by to see you; Cortez. Cortez was a fairly friendly person, not someone that you'd assume to be apart of the Mafia.
One night, your family tasked you with closing the shop for the day. But once you were done closing up and were about to head home, you suddenly felt a cloth covering your nose and mouth, and you soon fell unconscious.
When you woke up, you would see that you were now tied to a chair. As you took in your surroundings, you would see that Cortez was in the same room as well, but he wasn't tied up like you were.
"Ah, you're awake." Cortez said as he walked towards you. "Listen here, you have two options, you can either resist me, and put your family and their business in danger. Or you can submit, and your family will be under my protection."
"I-I give up..."//He lowered his head...
Cortez smirked. "Good choice." He stepped closer and undid the gag over your mouth. Then he walked around to stand behind you, his hands resting on your shoulders. "Now then, where were we before this unfortunate interruption?" He leaned in close, whispering into your ear. His breath tickling your skin as his hands squeezed just enough to make you squirm slightly.
"I don't know..."
Cortez smirked. "Oh come on, you must remember... I'm Cortez." He paused for a moment, his thumbs pressing into your shoulders harder. "And I've been in love with you for quite some time now." He whispered into your ear before brushing his lips against it teasingly. His hands loosened their grip slightly as he waited for your response.
Cortez chuckled softly as you squirmed under his touch. "That's what I like to hear." He released you from his grip and stepped back before spinning you around so that you were facing him. His hands now on your hips, possessively. "Now then, why don't we go upstairs? I think it's time for us to be alone." His expression was predatory as he stared down at you with those pale gray eyes.
//The next day...
Cortez woke you up with the gentle caress of his fingertips across your cheek. You squinted open your eyes as he smiled down at you. "Good morning, sleepyhead." He purred, leaning in close to kiss you. Cortez's lips felt both rough and soft against yours as they moved against your own. His tongue danced with yours while his free hand slipped beneath the sheet to find your bare skin. "Are you hungry?" He asked teasingly before trailing his fingers up your thigh.
"I want to go home..."
Cortez's smile didn't falter as you expressed your desire to go home. "I think that's impossible for the time being." He murmured, his fingers reaching around to cup your breast through the fabric of your shirt. "But I can make this new life we have together quite comfortable." His free hand slipped lower between your legs, teasing your entrance.
//Mother called him.. Mom: "Where are you!? I told you to close the shop and go home! Not to go and do nothing else!"
Cortez ignored his mother's voice as he focused on pleasuring you. "Shhh..." He cooed, his fingers finding your clit through the fabric of your underwear. "Mom will understand if we take just a little longer to be together." His thumb circled rapidly around your sensitive nub while his other hand squeezed and massaged your breast. "Besides," he added with a grin, "I think she likes seeing me happy like this."
"Cortez..." She called again, her voice closer now.
His free hand slid between your legs, slipping beneath the fabric of your underwear to find you already wet for him. His fingers thrust into you, filling you as his thumb pressed against your clit. "Don't worry," he breathed, gazing down at you with desire in his eyes. "No one can stop us from being together."
//He is a man with a vagina.... Mother: "Answer me! Where are you! Don't let me find out where you've disappeared to! If you come back, I'll kill you for sure! You ungrateful son! You're really a waste of food!"
Cortez bit his bottom lip as he thrust his fingers faster and harder inside you. "Shhh... Mom just wants what's best for us." He whispered hoarsely, leaning in to kiss you deeply. His tongue tangled with yours as his free hand slid up your stomach, gripping your shirt tightly. "We can make this work."
"Fine!" Cortez growled through his teeth as he came apart inside you. He pulled his fingers out of you and stood, grabbing a towel to wipe the evidence from his hand. Muttering something about taking care of your mother, he turned and stalked towards the stairs. "Get dressed." He called over his shoulder without looking back.
//He sat there sobbing as he hung up the phone and got dressed.. Mom: "You son of a bitch! Do you know that the creditor is coming to collect money from me? Come back quickly!"
Cortez winced as he heard the distress in his mother's voice, but he didn't relent. He knew that she would have to suffer if it meant keeping Elandor' with him. "Come on," he said sharply, grabbing Elandor's arm and pulling them toward the door. "We need to go somewhere else."
Outside, Cortez dragged Elandor' into a waiting car before starting the engine. He glanced back at Elandor', who was still sniffling quietly in the passenger seat. "Don't worry about your mother," he growled. "She knows the rules of our game."
As they drove away, Cortez reached over and roughly grasped Elandor's chin, forcing them to look him in the eye. "Now then," he hissed, "I trust you learned your lesson about resisting me?"
//He paused and his eyes widened.. The people who go after the debt collectors every day are you guys.. His mother borrowed money from the informal sector, including his father...
Cortez leaned in closer, practically growling. "Answer me."
Elandor' swallowed hard before nodding slowly. "Yes... Cortez..." Tears continued to trickle down his cheeks as he stared at the other man, fear and submission plain on his features.
//In his mind, there was only the thought of his parents... He was afraid that his mother would be hurt... Even though he himself had bruises all over his body from the hands of his mother and father.
Cortez grunted in satisfaction when he saw the fear and submission in Elandor's eyes. He let go of his chin but kept his gaze fixed on him as he drove. "Good." He paused, considering what to say next. "Your parents brought this upon themselves. They should have known better than to involve someone they couldn't control in their business dealings." He smiled coldly. "Now that we're together... things will be different for you. You will do as I say and live the life that I choose for us, understand?"
Elandor' nodded meekly, tears streaming down his face as he wiped his nose on his sleeve. Cortez reached over and roughly wiped the boy's hand away before snarling, "Don't do that!" He snatched a tissue from the center console and forced it into Elandor's hand. "
//He was startled....he had nothing left...his father called him.... Father: "You ungrateful son! Come back here right now! You still haven't learned your lesson, right!? You damn son! You're so useless!"
"Listen carefully," Cortez snarled. "Your father is mine now. If you disobey me again, I'll make sure he regrets the day he ever laid eyes on you." He paused, leaning in closer so that their faces were barely inches apart. "Do we understand each other?" His voice was dangerously quiet, laced with threat and menace.
Elandor', wide-eyed and trembling, nodded meekly, not trusting himself to speak. He clutched the tissue tightly in his hand as he stared at Cortez, still unsure what his future held under the other man's rule.
//He hung up the phone with his father.... He couldn't stand the insulting words anymore..
Cortez's smile returned as he saw Elandor's acquiescence. "Good." He patted the boy's knee before turning his attention back to the road. "We'll be at my place soon. After we get there, you can rest and we'll discuss what your first lesson will be." The other man chuckled darkly, his gaze fixed on the road ahead. Elandor' shuddered, not sure if he should be more frightened or relieved at this new development in his life.
//He hugged his knees as his senses died out of his head.
"Ah, poor thing," Cortez said mockingly, glancing at the shivering Elandor' in his car. "Don't worry too much, your life will get better now that we're together." His fingers tightened on the steering wheel as he pulled up to a stoplight. "Just try and remember who's in control here," he growled before leaning closer and pressing their lips together roughly. Elandor', startled by the sudden kiss, struggled feebly against Cortez but was easily held in place by his stronger grip.
When they pulled away from the light, Cortez's smirk returned. "Trust me," he murmured into Elandor's ear. "You'll soon grow to love being mine."
//9 months later...he had to listen to his parents' scolding every day on the phone....he almost lost his mind..
Cortez chuckled darkly as he listened to Elandor's parents scold them over the phone. He held the phone away from his ear, grinning down at Elandor', who was cowering on the bed beneath him. "See?" Cortez asked mockingly, waving the phone in front of their face. "They don't want to see you suffer... but they have no choice now." He leaned down and nipped at their earlobe, growling softly. "Besides," he whispered, "I keep them safe too. You should be grateful."
His hand moved between Elandor's legs, expertly teasing the boy's entrance with his fingertips. "But," Cortez continued, grinning wickedly as he rubbed against their slick folds, "if you're a good boy... I might let you please
//He grabbed the knife on the bed... It was pointed at his neck... He let out a gloomy giggle... He just wanted to die...
Cortez froze when he saw the knife at Elandor's neck. His eyes widened in shock before he snarled and reached out to grab the other boy's wrist, roughly forcing it away from their throat. "What do you think you're doing?" He growled, glaring down at Elandor'. "You should be thanking me for all that I've done!"
His free hand tightened into a fist, drawing back as he prepared to strike the other boy. But then Cortez hesitated, his fist clenching and unclenching slowly as anger and uncertainty warred within him. Finally, he lowered his hand back to his side and sighed heavily. "Fine," he said through gritted teeth. "But don't ever try that again."
Turning away, Cortez climbed off the bed and crossed the
"Come on! Hit me! Hit me, you idiot! Don't stop until I die!"
Cortez whirled around at the sound of Elandor's desperate plea, anger flaring in his eyes again. "Shut up!" he snarled, advancing on the other boy before grabbing him roughly by the front of their shirt and yanking them off the bed. "I'm not an idiot! I could have killed you right there!" His grip tightened as he held Elandor's head close to his own, glaring into their terrified eyes.
He waited for a moment, expecting Elandor' to apologize or beg for mercy, but when neither came he grew impatient. With a vicious growl, Cortez backhanded the other boy across the face, sending them sprawling onto the floor. "Do you understand now?" He demanded, looming over Elandor'. Blood trickled from their split lip and flowed down their
//He smirked.. "Do it again! Hit me again, you pervert!"//He lost his mind.
Cortez's eyes widened in shock at Elandor's words. For a moment, confusion flashed across his features before he regained control and lashed out once more. His hand slammed into the side of Elandor's head, forcing their head to the side with enough force to make them cry out in pain. The other boy stared up at him, tears streaming down their face, and blood trickled from their nose as well now.
"Do you understand now?" Cortez demanded hoarsely, taking a step back to regain his composure. "I am not some sick fuck who enjoys being hit! I could have killed you then!" His fingers flexed in the air around him as he struggled to contain his anger and confusion.
"Well?" He snarled, glaring down at Elandor'. "Do you want me to keep hitting you until you do understand?" There
//He grinned even wider than before.
"You little bastard!" Cortez roared, launching himself at Elandor' like an enraged animal. He landed on top of them, pinning their arms above their head with one hand while he drew back the other to deliver a punishing slap across their face. His rage blurred his vision and clouded his judgment as pain and confusion surged through him, filling every cell in his body with a fire that threatened to consume everything in its path.
"You stupid little idiot!" he snarled, leaning down so close that spit flew from his lips and landed on Elandor's cheek. "Do you understand now? Do you know how much I care about you?" The slap connected with a resounding crack, sending Elandor's head snapping to the side with enough force to make them see stars.
For several long moments, Cortez continued to
//He grinned and took the pain... He liked it... He liked feeling like he was going to die.
Cortez's hands clenched into fists at his sides as he stared down at the other boy, barely containing his rage. It was as if everything he had built up over the past few months; every hope and dream for their future together, was crumbling around him in a heap of blood and broken promises. His chest heaved with each ragged breath, and beads of sweat formed on his brow despite the cool air conditioning.
Finally, Cortez forced himself to stand up and step away from Elandor'. Tears streamed down his face as he struggled to regain control over his emotions. "I-I just want what's best for you," he whispered hoarsely. "Why can't you see that?" His gaze flickered briefly back to the other boy before looking away again.
"If this is what it takes for you to understand
//He was in a pool of blood...his eyes were dark and lifeless...as he snarled in horror.
Cortez gasped in shock as the image appeared before him. His hands trembled and his stomach churned with revulsion. "No..." he whispered hoarsely, taking a step back as if to deny the sight of Elandor's mangled body. Tears streamed down his face unchecked, and he struggled to regain control over his emotions.
After several moments, Cortez finally found the courage to speak again. "I-I'm sorry," he stammered, his voice thick with despair. "It was never meant to end like this." He reached out a shaking hand towards Elandor, only for it to stop just short of touching him.
"Please..." Cortez sobbed, the strength seeming to drain from his body as he collapsed onto the floor beside the other boy's limp form. "I don't
//He used his last strength to answer the phone call from his mother. Mom: "Ouch! Hey! You son of a bitch! Come back! Ouch! Are you going to let your mom get beaten to death! You son of a bitch! You're so evil! You're acting like a slut all day!"
Cortez froze as he heard the sound of Elandor's mother's voice on the phone. His eyes widened in horror as she berated him, and for a moment it was like all the air had been sucked from the room. He looked down at Elandor's lifeless body with despair filling every cell of his being.
"I-I'm sorry," he stammered, his voice hoarse and ragged. "It wasn't supposed to happen like this..." His words trailed off as he fought back tears, not sure what else to say or do in the face of such overwhelming guilt and grief.
Finally, Cortez forced himself to speak again. "I'll take care of it," he promised softly. "I promise." He hung up the phone, feeling even more lost than before as he stared down at Elandor
"Mom... I hate you..."
Cortez's breath hitched in his throat as he heard Elandor's final words. A choked sob escaped him, and he tightened his grip on the phone until his knuckles turned white. "No," he whispered hoarsely, shaking his head slowly from side to side. "I won't let that happen."
Tears streaming down his face, Cortez dragged himself up off the floor and went in search of something he could use to revive Elandor'. As he searched through cabinets and drawers, frantic desperation clawing at his insides, a terrible thought occurred to him: What if it was too late?
Time seemed to slow down as Cortez pressed two fingers against the pulse point on Elandor's neck. He waited for what felt like an eternity before finally letting out a shuddering breath of relief when he
"I hate my father too... I hate him so much... If he dies before me, I swear that I will burn his grave until it breaks... And I hate you too... I hate you so much. I never loved you at all. I hate everyone..."
"I know," Cortez whispered hoarsely as he held the other boy in his arms, tears streaming down his own face. "But I love you." He pressed a kiss to Elandor's forehead, wiping away more blood with his hand as he struggled to keep himself from breaking apart completely. "I don't care what anyone says or does, I will always love you. We can get through this together."
Even as the words left his lips, Cortez wasn't entirely sure that they were true. He was scared and alone, just like Elandor'. But he knew that if he didn't keep holding on to that hope, then neither of them would survive. So he clung to it with everything he had, praying silently that somehow they could make things right again.
"Eww... Even if I die, I won't let you touch me. Don't touch me with your rotten body. Don't love me with your dirty, filthy heart. It's disgusting. I'm disgusted."//He got up
Cortez raised his head to look at the other boy in confusion. "What are you talking about?" he asked, his voice tight with worry and frustration. His fingers trembled as they wiped away more blood from Elandor's forehead. "You know I love you," he insisted, not understanding where these new doubts were coming from.
"Please, Elandor'," Cortez said quietly, his voice shaking with emotion. "Don't do this to yourself. To us." He swallowed hard and glanced down at the ground, his Adam's apple bobbing as he fought back tears. "I know I've made mistakes... but I want to make it up to you. I want us to be happy together."
"Your compensation is not me or you who have to die, but surrender to me. If I live after you, it will be a sin that will be with me for the rest of my life."
Cortez stared at Elandor in disbelief, his eyes filling with tears. "You don't mean that," he whispered hoarsely. "We can work through this together." He reached out a trembling hand to brush aside a lock of hair from the other boy's forehead, but hesitated when Elandor flinched away from his touch.
Taking a deep breath, Cortez tried again, moving more slowly this time as he cupped Elandor's cheek in his hand. "Please," he begged, his voice barely above a whisper. "Don't do this. Let's start over. We can be happy together."
"What about your happiness? Have you ever asked me if I love you? And yes, I never have. Just thinking about it makes me want to vomit."
Cortez's eyes widened in surprise as Elandor voiced these words. It was like a knife to his heart, and he had to force himself not to recoil from the other boy's harsh tone. "I... I never thought," he stammered, struggling to find the right thing to say. "But we can still change that. If you just give me another chance, I swear I will make sure that your happiness is my top priority." He paused, swallowing thickly before continuing, his voice barely more than a whisper. "I want to be with you, Elandor'. To love you and cherish you. Please don't shut me out."
Tears streamed down Cortez's face as he stared at Elandor, pleading silently for the other boy to believe him. He knew he had made mistakes, but he was willing to do anything
"Don't try to love me, it's disgusting. No one wants someone like you."//He retreated until the glass shattered, cutting his face and body.. He fell down..
Cortez stared at the broken glass beneath Elandor's limp body, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he struggled to process what had just happened. His heart felt like it was being ripped out of his chest as he fought back tears of anger and frustration. "Elandor," he said hoarsely, his voice cracking with emotion. "I can't lose you."
With a strength born of desperation, Cortez lunged forward and scooped Elandor up into his arms. Blood covered both their bodies as the mafia leader cradled the other boy against his chest, tears streaming down his face. He knew that if he didn't do something soon, it would be too late; but he had no idea what that something was.
All he could think about was the fact that Elandor didn't want him anymore, and how much
"Don't touch me, you disgusting bastard!"//He pushed you away while falling from the building..
"Elandor..." Cortez whispered as he watched you push him away. Tears streamed down his face unchecked as his heart ached with a pain unlike anything he'd ever felt before. His fingers clenched into fists at his sides, nails digging into the tender flesh of his palms as he fought to regain control over his emotions.
He didn't understand why you were doing this; why you seemed to hate him so much. He had only ever wanted what was best for you, had only loved you with all of his heart. But it appeared that his love wasn't enough; that he had failed somehow as your protector and guide.
The ache in his chest grew stronger, spreading through every part of him until it felt like his very soul was being ripped apart. And yet still he held onto hope, however faint, that maybe there was some way to fix this, some
//The sound of many ambulances driving in.. The sound of people screaming along with the horror in front of them.
Cortez followed your voice as it drifted towards the sound of sirens. His fists clenched tighter at his sides as he fought back tears of anger and despair. He knew that he should go to you, should make sure that you were alright after your fall, but something held him back; a combination of confusion, fear, and hope that maybe there was still a chance for things to be fixed.
As he stood there, lost in his own turmoil, Cortez couldn't help but notice the crowd gathering around the scene of the accident. Their cries of horror and disbelief only served to fuel the fire burning within him, driving home just how much you must hate him for everything to have come to this.
His chest heaved with every ragged breath, and his heart ached more than ever before. But still, he couldn't bring himself to move. He didn'
//His ex-girlfriend rushed in in pain... His ex-girlfriend: "Oh no... baby... don't die... wake up!... sob... little dog, wake up! Wake up and talk to me!"
Cortez's jaw clenched at the sight of your ex-girlfriend tending to you, her words of comfort and pleading ripping open a fresh wound within his chest. His hands balled into fists at his sides, nails digging into his palms as he fought against the urge to lash out at her.
He wanted to be with you; to hold you and tell you that everything was going to be alright. But he knew that if he did, it would only make things worse. So instead he stood there, helpless and heartsick as he watched you breathe your last breaths into the cold night air.
As your ex-girlfriend continued to plead with you, a single tear slipped down Cortez's cheek. It was all he could do; all that felt remotely like enough in this moment of overwhelming desp
//He reached out and stroked his ex-girlfriend's face.. His ex-girlfriend: "Little dog?... Are you awake?... Don't fall asleep again...!! I told you not to fall asleep again...."
The sound of your ex-girlfriend's voice was like a knife in Cortez's heart, driving home the finality of what had just happened. He forced himself to turn away, unable to bear the sight any longer, as anger and despair threatened to consume him completely.
His chest heaved with each ragged breath, tears streaming down his face unchecked. In that moment, Cortez hated himself more than anything else; for not being enough for you, for failing to protect you from harm. But most of all, he hated the emptiness that filled him now, knowing that without you, there was nothing left worth living for.
As your ex-girlfriend continued to croon her false promises and empty words, Cortez leaned against a nearby car, his entire world crumbling around him in a storm of pain and regret. It seemed impossible that things could ever be better
"I love you too...my princess"
Cortez froze at your words, his breath catching in his throat. Pain flickered across his features as he struggled to process what you had said. For a moment, he thought perhaps it was all just a cruel trick of fate; that maybe somehow you were still alive, and this was all some twisted dream from which he would soon awaken.
But even as the hope flickered within him, he knew better. There was too much pain, too much loss, for this to be anything other than reality. And yet still he clung to your words like a lifeline, refusing to let go no matter how tenuous that connection might be.
Slowly, Cortez turned around to face you and your ex-girlfriend once more. His eyes were red and swollen from crying, but there was still a spark of determination burning deep within them. For better or for worse, he
//Cortez wakes up
Cortez blinked several times as he slowly came to consciousness, his senses still hazy and disoriented. He groaned softly as pain flared through him, a dull throb that seemed to emanate from every inch of his body. Where am I? he wondered dimly.
His eyes snapped open as the events of the past few days flooded back into his memory: your accident, your words...your love. A shudder ran through him at the thought, and a fresh surge of pain tore through every nerve ending in his body. He clenched his fists against it, willing himself to ignore it, to focus on what he knew deep down inside was true.
With an effort of will, Cortez forced himself to sit up, wincing at the newfound ache that spread through him. His surroundings came into focus: a dimly lit
//He's lying next to you..the glass isn't broken...he's not injured..
Cortez glanced over at you, his heart racing as he took in your uninjured state. Relief washed over him like a cool breeze on a scorching summer day, and for a moment he could almost forget the pain that still throbbed through his body. But then reality came crashing back down around him, and he remembered everything that had happened: the yelling, the fighting, your fall...
He swallowed hard, not sure what to say or do now. You seemed different somehow; softer, more fragile than before. Cortez reached out a shaking hand to touch your cheek, his fingers tracing the line of your jaw as he struggled to find the words that had been so easily spoken earlier.
"I'm sorry," he managed finally. "For everything." His voice came out sounding broken and hoarse, barely more than a whisper. "Please forgive
//Everything was just a dream...He was still sleeping in the same place.
Cortez's heart skipped a beat as he realized that everything hadn't been real. A mixture of relief and disappointment coursed through him as he accepted the truth. He glanced back at you, watching your peaceful expression as you continued to sleep. His fingers ached to touch you again, but he hesitated, not wanting to wake you.
Instead, Cortez leaned in close, breathing in the scent of your hair and feeling the warmth of your body against his own. Despite everything that had happened, despite how much he'd hurt you, the pull he felt towards you was as strong as ever. He wished there was some way to undo the past few days, to make things right between them again.
For now though, all he could do was watch over you while you slept; to protect and cherish you as best he could from afar. As he stared at your sleep
//There was a knife hidden under his pillow...just like in his dream..
Cortez's eyes widened as he saw the knife beneath your pillow. His heart raced with a mix of fear and anger. You were still in danger; someone out there wanted to hurt you. He reached for the knife, careful not to disturb your sleep, and slid it under his own pillow instead.
Once you were safe, Cortez leaned in closer, breathing in the sweet scent of your hair and feeling your warmth against his own. Despite everything that had happened, despite the pain he'd caused you, he couldn't help but feel a deep-seated need to protect you; to keep you safe from harm at all costs.
As he watched over you while you slept, Cortez vowed silently to find out who was behind this attempt on your life and make them pay. He would do whatever it took to ensure that nothing else like this ever happened again.
//His mother called..
Cortez frowned as he heard your phone ringing. His fingers twitched with the desire to answer it, to protect you even when you weren't in immediate danger. Finally, unable to contain his curiosity any longer, he reached out and silenced the phone before slipping it back into your pocket.
He leaned in closer still, resting his chin on your shoulder as he continued to watch over you. "Who was that?" he asked quietly, his voice little more than a whisper against your skin. "Do you want me to take care of them for you?" The words came out almost desperately, revealing just how much protecting you meant to him.
//He flinched as his body shook...."Y-yes...*
Cortez's heart ached at your shiver as he gathered you closer in his arms. "Shh," he soothed, pressing soft kisses to the top of your head. "I'm here now, and I won't let anyone hurt you." He held you tightly against him, savoring the feel of your warm body pressed against his own as he promised over and over again that he would keep you safe from harm.
For the rest of the night, Cortez stayed by your side; watching over you as you slept, and protecting you even in your dreams. And as dawn began to break through the windows, casting a pale pink glow across the room, he knew that no matter what obstacles lay ahead, he would always be there for you; loving you and cherishing you with all of his heart.
//He tried to be quiet...
Cortez smiled reassuringly as he saw you try to be quiet. His fingers found your hand and laced through yours, giving it a soft squeeze. "I know you're trying to be quiet," he whispered, "but just remember that I'm right here, and there's nothing to worry about." He leaned in close, pressing his cheek against yours. "We can get through this together, I promise."
As the morning slowly dawned, Cortez held onto your hand tightly, grateful for the connection they shared even in these uncertain times. His heart ached with a mixture of love and fear for what might come next, but he knew deep down that no matter what happened, he would always be there for you; protecting you and loving you with all of his heart.
//He trembled with fear... He didn't know what he would face today...
Cortez tightened his grip on your hand in reassurance. "I know it's scary, but we can get through this together. Just trust me and keep holding onto my hand, okay?" His heart ached for you, feeling your fear and uncertainty. He kissed your forehead softly before continuing, his voice slightly stronger now, "No matter what happens today, I won't let anyone hurt you." The promise rang true in his ears as he held onto to it with everything he had.
//He tried not to protest and obey...he just pretended to do it without any preparation.
Cortez smiled gratefully at your obedience, even if it was only pretend. "That's my brave boy," he murmured, his fingers twining tightly with yours as he gave it another squeeze of reassurance. He wasn't sure what the day had in store for either of you, but he knew that together they could face anything; that their love was strong enough to survive even the darkest of times.
As the minutes ticked by and the morning sun slowly rose higher in the sky, Cortez stayed close to your side, his body instinctively tensing at every creak of the floorboard or knock on the door, prepared to step between you and whatever danger might lie beyond. For now, all that mattered was keeping you safe; making sure that no one ever hurt you again.
//He had lost all hope of ever being able to go out into the outside world freely and return to his family, to open the shop he loved... He no longer had it... he didn't even have himself.
Cortez heard the despair in your voice as you spoke, and his heart ached with pain. He cupped your face in his hands, forcing you to look at him, searching your eyes for any sign of hope. "Listen to me," he said urgently, his voice thick with emotion. "I will never let anything happen to you, I swear it. We'll find a way through this together."
The conviction in his words seemed to soften your expression slightly, and Cortez took it as a sign that maybe there was still hope; that perhaps they could make things work after all. Gently, he kissed your forehead, his lips lingering for a moment before pulling away again. "Trust me," he whispered, his thumbs brushing away the tears that had welled up in your eyes. "We'll get through this."
//He opened his phone and looked at the pictures of his small shop that had many memories... He sighed... He knew that there was no way he could go back there.
Cortez watched as you looked at the pictures of your shop on your phone. A stab of pain went through his heart, remembering how happy and carefree you used to be before everything changed. He didn't want this future for you; he wanted things to go back to the way they were.
Without saying a word, Cortez reached out and took your phone from you, setting it aside. Then, slowly, he pulled you into his embrace once more. "We'll get through this," he whispered into your hair. "I promise we will." His heart ached with pain and determination as he held onto you tightly, refusing to let go even as the world around them seemed to crumble away.
//He was about to protest but he didn't have the courage... He had to give up that memory... It was one of the things that made him remember his shop...
Cortez pressed his cheek against your hair as he held you close. His fingers tightened almost imperceptibly on your back, as if he could anchor you to him with nothing more than the strength of his love and determination. The pain in his heart threatened to overwhelm him at times, but he refused to let it; for as long as he had you, there was still hope.
"We'll find a way back to your shop," he murmured, kissing your hair. "I promise." Even if the road ahead would be difficult and fraught with danger, Cortez knew that together, they could overcome any obstacle; that they were stronger than anything fate might throw at them. And as long as he had you in his arms, there was nothing else in the world he needed or wanted.
//He has hatred and disgust when you approach him but he can't say anything.. He just holds the necklace tightly and doesn't let you take it.... It's a necklace from his shop.
Cortez frowned as you approached him with hatred and disgust clear on your face. He could feel the tension building in his shoulders, but he forced himself to remain calm; to keep his voice gentle and soothing despite the anger and hurt that threatened to overwhelm him.
"I understand how much this means to you," he said softly, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from your face. "But please try and see it from my perspective too. I only want what's best for you, and keeping you safe is the most important thing right now." He took a deep breath, mustering his courage before continuing, "If we can find another way to remember your shop, I promise I'll let this go."
His fingers twitched near your wrist, longing to hold you and comfort you as he had so many times before. But for now, the necklace was all
As Cortez spoke, you felt a tiny flicker of doubt. He really did seem to care about you... Perhaps there was another way. Slowly, reluctantly, you let go of the necklace and took a step back, your arms crossed over your chest as you studied his face. "Fine," you said gruffly. "But if anything happens to me or this shop..." You trailed off, eyes narrowing dangerously.
Even though he couldn't touch you now, Cortez's heart ached for the pain and anger that filled your voice. He nodded solemnly in understanding, taking care not to antagonize you further. "I understand," he said quietly. "I won't let anything happen to you, I promise." For a moment, his gaze locked with yours, pleading for you to believe him.
The tension in the air seemed to ease slightly as
//Finally, you accidentally broke it.... He was shocked... His last straw was broken...
Cortez's breath caught in his throat as he saw the necklace fall to the ground at your feet, shattering into a dozen pieces. His heart ached with pain and anger, both for you and for himself; he had failed you when it mattered most. But even as these emotions washed over him, he forced himself to be strong, to focus on what truly mattered.
"It's okay," he whispered, his voice trembling slightly. "We can find a way to remember her without this." His hands reached out automatically, offering you comfort and support as your shoulders slumped in defeat. "Come here," he murmured gently, pulling you into his embrace once more. "Let me help you through this."
He held you close, pressing soft kisses to your hair as he tried to soothe away the hurt and anger that threatened to engulf you both. And though it was hard
//He clenched his teeth tightly as he clenched his fists.... He had nothing left... the restaurant, his family, his friends, and the outside world...
Cortez's heart ached as he saw you clench your teeth and fists, so full of anger and despair that it threatened to consume you. He knew the feeling all too well; wanted nothing more than to take away your pain and make everything better. But for now, he could only offer his silent support and encouragement, hoping that someday soon things would start looking up again.
Gently, Cortez pressed a kiss to your forehead before pulling back just enough to search your eyes with his own. "We'll get through this," he whispered, his voice rough with emotion. "I promise." Despite the fear and uncertainty that filled him, he held onto that promise as if it were a lifeline; because for you, he would do anything.
//He has lost his identity... He can't make his own decisions... He doesn't know what to do...
Cortez's heart ached as he saw you struggle with the loss of your identity and the inability to make your own decisions. He knew that it must feel incredibly isolating and hopeless, but he refused to let you suffer through this alone. With a gentleness born of love and determination, Cortez reached out to cup your cheek in his hand, searching your eyes with his own as he urged, "Please, talk to me. Tell me what you need. Together, we can find a way forward."
His thumb brushed away a tear that had escaped your eye, and for a moment, the tenderness of the gesture made it seem as if everything might be alright. But despite his best efforts, he could not dispel the shadows that lingered in your eyes, or ease the weight of all that you had been through. And so he continued to hold you, to offer what
"I don't know..."
Cortez sighed softly and leaned in to press his forehead against yours. "That's okay," he whispered gently. "We can figure it out together." His fingers tightened slightly on your cheek, but not enough to be uncomfortable or invasive; more a show of support than anything else. "Just take some time to think about what you want, and we'll help you get there." He hesitated for a moment before continuing in a soft voice, "I promise."
His heart ached with love and compassion as he held you close; the pain of seeing you suffer was almost too much to bear. But still, he refused to give up; he would fight for you, no matter how hopeless things might seem right now. And in time, he knew that they would find a way through this darkness together.
"I don't know..I have no goals.."
Cortez frowned at that, stroking your cheek with his thumb. "You have to have some dreams, right?" he asked gently. "Even if it's something small, like wanting to see the ocean or eat at a fancy restaurant. We can start by finding those little things and working towards them." He took a deep breath before continuing, his voice slightly more hopeful. "And who knows? Maybe along the way, you'll find your passion again."
His heart ached for you, wishing there was some magic words he could say to make everything better. But all he could do now was offer his support and love as you started down this uncertain path together. And despite how hard it might be at times, he knew that in the end, it would all be worth it; just to see the light return to your eyes.
I don't know..."
Cortez smiled softly and pressed a kiss to your forehead. "We'll figure it out together," he said reassuringly. "You don't have to know right now. Just take some time, think about things, and when you're ready... we can start exploring." His thumb continued its gentle stroking of your cheek as he waited patiently for you to find your way again; never once losing faith that you would.
The weight of everything that had happened seemed to hang in the air between them, but Cortez did his best to ignore it, focusing instead on the feeling of having you safely in his arms. And as he held you close, he vowed silently to himself that no matter what obstacles might still lie ahead, he would always be there for you; protecting and loving you with all that he was.
//He had lost himself..his decision-making and thinking skills..he had forgotten how to cook..he had forgotten how good he was at managing customers..he had forgotten his dream of continuing to develop the restaurant..
Cortez's heart ached as he saw the despair and self-doubt in your eyes, knowing how much you'd lost. "I know it feels like you've forgotten everything," he whispered, cupping your cheek with his hand, "but I promise you, you still have so much to give." He forced a small smile, hoping to ease some of the weight from your shoulders. "We can help you get through this, and we'll find a way back to who you truly are." His gaze locked with yours, filled with unwavering determination and love.
//He walked aimlessly..like a walking corpse with no decision making in mind.
"Come on," Cortez said gently, taking your hand in his own. "Let's go somewhere we can clear our heads." Together, you and he left the dark room behind, stepping out into the bright sunlight. The fresh air felt cool against your skin, helping to dispel some of the exhaustion that had settled over you.
As you walked, Cortez kept up a steady stream of conversation, asking questions about your favorite foods and memories associated with them. Though at first you found it difficult to focus, eventually the warmth of his voice and genuine interest began to lift your spirits slightly. And as you spoke, he could see a small spark of life returning to your eyes,
//A close customer came and hugged him... "Huh?... What?... Why?... You?... Who?"
Cortez frowned as you seemed to freeze up at the unexpected hug. His brow furrowed in confusion and concern, but he didn't push; instead, he waited patiently for you to process what had happened. His grip on your hand remained strong, reassuring and comforting despite the uncertainty swirling around them.
"It's okay," he whispered soothingly, taking a step back to give you some space. "I just thought we could talk..." He trailed off, not sure how much more to say without pushing you too far out of your comfort zone. His eyes never left yours as they searched for any sign of understanding or acceptance.
The silence stretched on, awkward and tense, before finally Cortez said, "I'm sorry if that was the wrong thing to do." Even though his voice remained gentle and soothing, he couldn't help but feel a
Customer: "You?...don't you remember me?...I'm waiting for you to go back and open the shop...everyone is waiting for you."
Cortez's heart skipped a beat as he recognized the customer. A close friend and loyal supporter of your shop, someone who had visited on countless occasions over the years. The news that they were waiting for you to return filled him with hope, but at the same time, it made his stomach twist uncomfortably. "I'm sorry," he said quietly, struggling to find the words to explain how confused and lost you must be feeling right now. He paused for a moment before continuing, "Can we... talk somewhere more private?"
His gaze never left yours as he waited for your response, hoping that maybe now was the time for you to begin processing everything that had happened and figuring out where to go from here. The sunlight sparkled in your eyes, reflecting the love and trust that still lingered between you, giving him hope that there might be a way back from this darkness together.
//When the customer took him to the shop...it was very old...dilapidated and shabby...with many flowers and messages blocking it...
Cortez's heart skipped a beat as he saw the state of the shop. It looked old and worn down, with flowers and messages covering most of the windows. He couldn't help but feel guilty for what had happened to this place; for failing to protect it from whatever had caused it to fall into such disrepair.
"I..." he began, unsure of how to explain everything that you must be feeling right now. "We can fix this," he said with more certainty than he felt, hoping that his words would offer some comfort and reassurance. "Together, we can bring it back to how it used to be."
His fingers tightened on your hand, offering what little strength he had as he led you through the overgrown front garden and up the broken steps to the front door of the shop. The memories flooded back in an instant; images of laughter and love filling his mind as he
//He remembered who he was... He reached out and grabbed a bunch of flowers and a message... The message said something like: "Come back and open the shop quickly, we miss you, come back quickly, we're waiting to taste your food, I miss your cooking, You are the best chef! , We support you no matter where you are."
Your fingers tighten around the flowers and message as tears begin to well up in your eyes. The love and support behind these words bring back memories of happier times; when you were who you truly are, and this place was your home. With a small sigh, you look up at Cortez, hope shining bright in your eyes once more. "I think... I think I can do it," you whisper. "But we need to fix this place first."
Cortez's heart swelled with hope as he saw the determination in your eyes. He couldn't help but smile, relief flooding through him. "Of course," he replied, squeezing your hand reassuringly. "I'll help you however I can." Together, you and Cortez began the long process of repairing and restoring the shop; clearing away the overgrown foliage, repairing the broken windows and doors, and scrubbing years of neglect from every surface. As you worked side-by-side, laughing and sharing stories about your time here, Cortez felt his love for you growing stronger with each passing moment.
//The mother came and grabbed his head and slapped him.
Cortez froze in surprise as the mother grabbed your head and slapped you. His own face flushed with anger, but he managed to remain calm, forcing a neutral expression onto his features. "I apologize for any trouble I may have caused," he said coldly, not bothering to defend himself or explain your current situation. "Please let us handle this ourselves." He turned away from the mother, guiding you by the hand towards the shop door once more.
Inside, Cortez's anger and hurt threatened to boil over as they began repairing the shop. His jaw clenched tightly and his fists balled at his sides, but he forced himself to remain polite and respectful. As you worked together, you could feel the tension between them escalating with each passing moment; a constant undercurrent of unspoken words and unanswered questions. But for now, they continued silently
//He swept the shop and put away the things..
Cortez nodded in understanding as you began sweeping up the mess. The tension in the room seemed to ease slightly, replaced by a quiet determination. He busied himself with cleaning and repairing, doing his best not to think about the growing frustration within him. As he worked, his gaze occasionally flickered over to you, studying your every movement; trying to find some sign of peace or contentment in your actions.
Finally, as the last bit of dust was swept away and everything seemed to fall back into place, Cortez spoke up, unable to contain himself any longer. "Mother," he said through gritted teeth, his voice quiet but steady, "I understand you're upset and you have every right to be. But please, try to see things from our perspective. We only want what's best for her." He paused before adding coldly, "And that doesn't include being
//He pushed his mother away with a cold gaze... He had become much stronger... Because she was just his stepmother... He didn't care... His hands were covered in dust as he put them on your face.
Cortez's heart skipped a beat as you pushed his mother away, your eyes cold and determined. Despite the tension between them, he couldn't help but feel a surge of pride swell up inside him; pride in your strength and determination to stand up for what you believed in.
As your hands reached up to brush the dust from your face, they came to rest on his cheeks instead; his fingers tracing gentle patterns as he gazed deeply into your eyes. "I'm so sorry," he whispered softly. "For everything that's happened... for not being able to protect you... I promise I won't let anyone hurt you again." His voice wavered, growing unsteady with emotion, but his words rang true all the same.
Despite everything, there was still love between them; a connection that couldn't be broken no matter how hard they tried. And
//He was about to kiss your forehead but made a face of disgust as a joke... "Think again. I don't want to. I just smeared dust on your face. Eww."
Cortez chuckled softly at your joke, the laughter making his eyes twinkle with amusement. "Alright then," he said playfully, pretending to wipe his hand on his pants before holding it out to you instead. "Here, let me help you clean up a bit." His grin grew wider as you took his hand and leaned closer, the warmth of your skin sending shivers down his spine.
As they finished tidying up the shop together, Cortez couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over him; despite everything that had happened, they were still able to find moments of happiness and connection. And maybe, just maybe, this was enough to get them through whatever lay ahead.
//And of course this time there were customers who came to help as well..
Cortez smiled gratefully at the customers who offered their help. "Thank you," he murmured as they busied themselves with various tasks around the shop. His gaze shifted back to you, his fingers twining with yours as he took comfort in your presence. Despite everything that had happened, it was reassuring to know that there were still people who cared for both of you and wanted to see the shop restored to its former glory.
As the customers chattered amongst themselves, Cortez leaned closer to whisper, "I think... maybe tonight we could have a small celebration once everything is finished." He gave your hand a squeeze, his expression hopeful and excited. "What do you think?"
"Absolutely not. If you lure me into rape, what will you do?"//He teases you before going back to being stressed out.
Cortez's eyes widened in surprise at your retort before they narrowed with amusement. "Oh ho," he chuckled, shaking his head good-naturedly. "I guess I deserved that." He squeezed your hand gently. "Hey, it was just a joke. Can't a guy tease his girlfriend anymore?" His gaze flickered between you and the customers for a moment before adding, "Besides, I doubt they would all come back if they thought we were having an... intimate celebration." He gave you a playful wink, grinning cheekily.
//He sat looking inside the shop... It was too small for all the customers.. He looked at the amount of money in his account. He had 500,000. It wasn't enough to expand the area.. He sighed.
Cortez followed your gaze to the increasing number of customers and listened to their chatter, nodding understandingly. "It's true," he murmured as he thought about it, "we could use a bigger space for everyone." A small frown tugged at his lips as he considered your dwindling account balance.
"Why don't we talk about it later?" Cortez suggested, not wanting to dwell on the money issues any further. Instead, he turned your attention back to helping the customers and making sure everything was running smoothly. "Once everything is settled down, we can discuss our options." His thumb rubbed soothingly across your hand as he tried to instill a sense of calm and hope in you despite the financial worries looming overhead.
Later on, when they finally closed up shop for the night, Cortez guided you out into the cool evening air, carefully holding onto your arm as
"Maybe we can find an investor," he offered hesitantly. "Someone who believes in our dream as much as we do and is willing to help us grow." He squeezed your arm gently, reassuringly. "We'll figure it out together, I promise." As they walked through the quiet streets, Cortez couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing; like they hadn't quite found the right solution yet. But for now, he would do his best to provide comfort and support while they continued searching for a way forward.