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

Chapter 54: Yearning For Some Else

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The moment we dove into the water, I kicked off hard, determined to win.

The cool water rushed over me as I pushed forward with strong, quick strokes. I could feel Daniel close behind me, his presence pushing me to try even harder. My arms cut through the water, and I kicked with all the energy I had, refusing to let him catch up.

But Daniel was fast, too fast. His powerful strokes closed the gap between us. My arms cut through the water, and I kicked with all the energy I had, refusing to let him catch up.

The edge of the pool came into view, and I gave one final, strong push, gliding forward with all my strength. My fingertips brushed the wall. I had won.

Gasping for air, I turned to find Daniel grinning, just a second behind me. His wet hair clung to his forehead, and his eyes sparkled with amusement, completely unfazed by his loss—if anything, he looked entertained, as if he'd let me win.

“I told you I was a pretty good swimmer,” I gasped, still catching my breath, as I wiped the water from my face. Pride filled me, and a triumphant smile tugged at my lips. The victory felt amazing.

He shrugged, the playful gleam in his eyes making me roll mine. "I did give you a head start."

I shook my head, my smirk widening. “Like hell you did. I won fair and square."

He chuckled softly, downplaying my victory as he brushed his hand across the water. "That's debatable.”

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17:32 Thu, 20 Feb tai o

Chapter 54: Yearning For Some Else

Without thinking, I reached out, splashing water at him playfully.

His eyes widened in mock outrage as droplets clung to his face. “Oh, no, you didn't."

"I believe I did," I taunted, teasing him with my gaze before swimming away quickly. But before I could get far, he caught up to me in an instant. His arm slipped around my waist, and suddenly, the closeness felt a little

too much.

“So, Champion,” he murmured, his voice low as his fingers gently pressed against my side. "What do you want?” His words and touch suddenly made me feel uncomfortable.

"I'll have to think about it," I let out quickly, pulling away from his hold and swimming to the edge. He followed, but this time he kept some distance, sensing my unease.

"How long will you need to decide what you want?” he teased, his voice lighter now.

I turned to face him, resting my arms on the edge. “How about this: I ask you a few questions, and you give me honest answers."

His brow lifted as his grin returned. "Didn't we just do that earlier?"

This time it's personal," I shot back with a playful smirk.

Daniel crossed his arms over the water, leaning slightly toward me. “Alright. Ask me anything. But don't forget-you only get to ask a question based on your win."

“Fair enough,” I teased, feeling more in control now. "Let's start with questions."

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1. Thu 20 Feb

Chapter 54. Yearning For Some Else

"Shoot."

I paused, gathering my thoughts. “How old are you?”

"Forty-six,” he said easily, without missing a beat.

I blinked, genuinely surprised. “You definitely look younger.” I studied his handsome facial features. Just like Gabriel, he looked super sexy and more like someone in his early to mid-thirties. What was their secret to looking this good?

"Daniel tilted his head with a playful glint in his eyes. "Thank you. I try to keep up appearances.”

I rolled my eyes at his joke but couldn't help a small smile. Tell me, why did you decide to join the Gemial project?noveldrama

He tilted his head slightly, his smile fading just a bit. "I thought you said personal questions."

I arched a brow, refusing to let him off the hook. "This is about you, isn't it?"

He chuckled but answered more seriously. “Fair enough. I heard Sergio was looking for partners to expand Gemia, and I joined because it was a smart move. I wanted a new business to invest in, and I trusted Sergio."

I nodded, satisfied, but curiosity pushed me to press further. “Why are you single at forty-six?”

I saw his expression change. For a moment, his eyes clouded with something deeper. He let out a breath, glancing away briefly "Straight to the hard questions, huh?”

I could tell my question struck a nerve.

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1732 Thu, 20 Feb-d

Chapter 54: Yearning For Some Else

I shrugged, softening my tone. “I need to know these things."

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He sighed, his face softening as he let his guard down. "I was almost married once, but it didn't work out. I was too focused on work, too wrapped up in building my career. She eventually called off the engagement. At the time, I thought it was for the best."

“And now?” I asked, genuinely curious about his past. I wanted to understand the man before me, even though my heart was beating for someone else.

"Now," he admitted, his voice softer, "I see how I could've been a better partner. I should've given her more. time, more attention. But I didn't, and she left."

I took a moment to absorb his words. I'm sorry,” I said gently, meaning it. “But honestly, it's better to end an engagement than a marriage. You weren't ready to be the man she needed, and staying together would've made you both miserable. The fact that you can admit your part in it shows growth. Not many people can do that.".

“Claire, I don't want to lie to myself anymore,” he said, his voice sincere. “Money and power are great, even exhilarating, but I've learned that family is what truly matters.”

Daniel's lips pressed into a thin line. “Claire, I'm done lying to myself. Money and power are great-they,can be thrilling-but I've learned that family is what really matters."

My heart gave a faint tug at the honesty in his voice. "So, you're ready for a family now?" The question slipped out before I could stop it.

“I am,” he admitted, his voice firm, his eyes locking onto mine. “Claire, I'm not going to play games with your heart if you let me in. I want something real, something intentional. Have dinner with me tonight."

"I don't..." I stuttered, unsure of how to respond. This felt too fast, too soon. Daniel seemed genuine, but my heart and body desperately yearned to be with Gabriel Storm.

1732 Thu, 20 Feb

Chapter 55: Getting Her Away From The Enemy