Falling For My Ex's Dad (Clarissa and Gabriel) novel Chapter 44

Clairessa’s POV 

Chapter 44: In–Between Father And Son 

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

I glanced at Gabriel, who was busy discussing the CEO of Tech Squad. He hadn’t noticed Adrian at all. 

Setting the glass down carefully, I tried to think of a way out. Adrian couldn’t see me here with his father- 

not now, not ever. 

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

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

His brow creased. “Is everything okay?” 

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

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

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

1/5 

III 

< 

18:52 Wed, 19 Feb. 

Chapter 44: In–Between Father And Son 

gesture to win me back. 

42% 

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

I approached an usher, who pointed me 

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

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

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

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

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

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

The blonde, clearly the leader, smirked. “Oh, look who it is–Gabriel’s latest fling.” 

The others exchanged glances, their eyes gleaming with envy. One leaned forward, her tone mockingly sarcastic. “So, tell us… Is Gabriel as good as they say? Does he give you those mind–blowing orgasms?” 

The third woman rolled her eyes. “Don’t be so vulgar. Can’t you see how innocent she looks? Poor thing 

43 

III O 

2/5 

18:53 Wed, 19 Feb. 

Chapter 44: In–Between Father And Son 

probably doesn’t know what she’s gotten into.” 

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

Their faces fell, their confidence shattered. 

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

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

His eyes lit up with surprise and hope. “Clairessa? It’s so good to see you.” 

I stiffened and replied coolly, “I’m not sure I feel the same.” 

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

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

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

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

“I can’t talk here,” I retorted. “I’m here for work, Adrian. That’s all.” 

O 

(+ 

FREE 

O 

3/5 

18:53 Wed, 19 Feb 

Chapter 44: In–Between Father And Son 

He sighed but nodded. “I understand. Tonight’s about my dad anyway. But seeing you… it makes it all. 

worth it.” 

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

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

I shifted uncomfortably. “Adrian, this isn’t the time.” 

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

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