Hola amigos! Bueno tardes! Eres mucho feli.... Sorry!! I was revising for my Spanish midterms. Now you see where this Spanish-ness is coming from?

Anyways! I am very happy to say that is the last chapter of Snippets and I am not going to write anything on My Version of Love now. Not with Ariana and Reyan in the story at least. 

I had this crazy idea of writing Naina and Aryan's (Ariana's parents) story, but it's an idea. I don't know...I have a few ideas for other stories and Planebound (Sequel for In Between Dimensions) is still in progress. 

I am going to shut up with this and take you to the second part of Actress and The C.E.O

I hope you like this story! Let me know your views!

Enjoy!

____

Ekaashi used her other hand and cupped Roman's cheek deepening the kiss. Roman wasn't a bad kisser, not to brag or anything, but Ekaashi, she was one helluva kisser. Roman's other hand traveled to her waist holding her towards him a bit. His other hand traveled from her hand to the small of her back making circles.

Ekaashi gasped which gave Roman's tongue allowance. To say it was a pleasant welcome was an understatement. It was mind-blowing. Roman pulled away focusing on the fact that they still needed oxygen to survive. Ekaashi didn't think the same because she pulled him again with her hands on his face.

She weaved one of her hand in his hair, and the other roamed on his naked torso. Roman gasped at the contact of cold hands, but couldn't deny the pleasure.

He had never kissed a person like he kissed Ekaashi, it was generally less kissing and more touching. But he liked the change, very much. His hands roamed around her waist, her silky robe was brilliant, but he needed to touch her skin. He was dying to. But he had to stop, they needed to stop.

Roman pulled away holding Ekaashi's face in his hand, placing his forehead against her's. They both were panting. Roman opened his eyes while Ekaashi still hadn't. She looked beautiful in the moonlight, her long, thick lashes touched her cheek. Her lips swollen from the kisses they shared.

When she opened her eyes, Roman thought he saw stars. She was truly breathtaking in every sense. Both of them kept quiet, listening to each other's labored breaths. Ekaashi's beauty spot grabbed Roman's attention again, he itched to touch it with his lips. Something moved inside Roman. He felt as if he had seen this, he had been here. As if he was waiting for this.

"Wow," He breathed out after the silence.

Ekaashi looked as if she didn't believe him. Roman smiled his best smile to prove his words. She smiled back which enough to tell him she was convinced.

"Why did you stop?" Ekaashi asked. Her hands were still on his chest. It felt comfortable so he didn't object.

Roman didn't know how to react, he felt his heart was beating so fast Ekaashi might hear it. He felt happy that she wanted more of him like he did.

"If I didn't stop now, I wouldn't have at all and a car is not a place to make love to a lady," He told her. He saw her gape at him pulling away slowly.

"Did you just say make love? People don't use that word now," Ekaashi was trying to hide a smile and he knew it.

"What can I say, I'm an old school that way," Roman shrugged leaning towards her.

"Your room or mine?" Ekaashi asked, a glint of mischief in her eyes.

"Wherever you want," Roman kissed her cheek and nuzzled her neck.

"Yours," She said biting his ear a lightly.

Roman kissed her neck earning a giggle but pulled away only to see her smile widely at him. He quickly kissed her beauty spot before she could react and started the car.

They didn't talk the whole way. There was so much sexual tension between them. It seemed that the air was somehow charged.

He knew it from her lip biting and nail picking Ekaashi was having a tough time as well. Roman decided it was no use following traffic rules and drove faster than he usually did towards the hotel.

They had a weird physical compatibility. It was strange, but amazing how they understood each other.

He was five minutes away when he asked Sam to let them enter through the security barrier, and then activate it as soon as they enter.

"I'll drop you at the back door and park the car. Go straight to the penthouse suite, top floor. Use this to enter," Roman handed her his fingerprinted key card.

"Why can't we go together?" Ekaashi was confused.

"I don't want you taking chances with the paparazzi. They could start a new rumor," He told her.

"Oh," There was a disappointment in her words, but as soon as Roman reached the back door, Ekaashi took the card, and ran inside.

Roman sighed and parked it car before making his way to his penthouse suite. He wasn't sure if he hurt Ekaashi with his words. He didn't mean it like he didn't want to be involved with her.

He knocked to make sure Ekaashi reached the correct place. Ekaashi opened the door, her knee-length robe gone just a skimpy nightdress barely covering her thighs.

She was wearing that the whole time?

She pulled him inside holding his jeans' loop and closed the door behind him shut. Before Roman could say anything, Ekaashi kissed him. Roman held her hands to pull her close. He gently traced her her dainty arms before reaching her up to her shoulders.

He broke away turning Ekaashi so that her back was towards him. He kissed her neck and then tracing his tongue against her shoulder dropping kisses, earning satisfying moans from Ekaashi.

He slipped the negligible straps of her nightdress down getting full access to her shoulder. She really did have glorious shoulders.

"Don't mind what I said. I don't want a rumor to start and the paps to follow you madly again," Roman confessed. "Have you changed your mind?" Roman asked kissing her back shoulder.

"Not at all," Ekaashi gasped, out of breath.

He then held her hand turning her to face so he could kiss her again. Her hands found their way to his torso again. Roman's moan told Ekaashi how appreciated her touch was, making Ekaashi smile into the kiss.

Without breaking from the kiss Roman's hands found the zipper of her dress and pulled it down. Ekaashi broke the kiss and Roman thought for a minute she might ask him to stop. Nothing like that happened because Ekaashi let the dress slide off her body before Roman could say 'woah'.

She wasn't wearing a bra that was obvious, but he didn't expect her being totally naked underneath. Roman had no words to describe the beauty in front of him so he did the next best thing. He kissed her hard enough to express how he thought of her.

Ekaashi didn't even fumble with his jeans, it was off before Roman could realize. Soon they were only in their skin and nothing else. Roman didn't know if sex could be exciting. This was new to him, it was weird how what he did she liked and what she did was as appreciated.

It seemed as if they knew each other before actually knowing. Three times, and one and a half hour later, all they could hear were labored breaths.

"This was the best sex of my life," Ekaashi confessed.

"It was making love, mi amor," He kissed her cheek as they lay together under the sheets.

"That's why" Ekaashi grinned. "I think I should go," Ekaashi tried to get up, but Roman held her waist to stop her.

"Why?" He asked.

"As much as I want to stay, Roman. I know you are a one-time person. I've heard almost all of my colleagues gush about how good you were," Ekaashi told him.

"So you wanted to personally experience it," Roman's voice was flat, but his hold on her waist didn't budge.

"I didn't. I am not really a sex liking person. I've done it doesn't mean I do it all the time. I am attracted to you, and I will be more if I stay the night," She confessed.

"Then stay," Roman whispered making her mouth fall ajar.

"Didn't you hear what I said? I am a 30-year-old woman who likes to stay at home with her dog and not have sex!" Ekaashi exclaimed.

Roman turned so that he was on top and Ekaashi was under him.

"You heard me. I want you to stay because I have never made love to anyone. I have had sex, a lot and I know what it is like. This wasn't meaningless. I...I believe we have potential if you give me a chance, us a chance," Roman said with total seriousness. His heart pounded in his chest like a rock was thrown on a trampoline. It was almost hurting.

"I am 5 years older to you," Ekaashi pointed out.

"You think I care?" Roman asked. He could see she was contemplating something.

"You want us despite my past? Despite the rumors? Despite my profession? Despite the fact it's going to be long distance most of the time?" She asked. She was considering it.

"Let me tell you something," Roman said as he shifted his position to that beside her as Ekaashi faced him. They were still lying on the bed. "I had never seen or heard about you until you came to my resort," He confessed which Ekaashi's face turn into one of horror. "I know you are famous, I heard some of the rumors from the paps, but I didn't know you until I saw you," He told her.

"How?" She asked him curiously.

"I used to be a movie buff until my parents sent me off to business school when I was 16. I realized I liked watching movies with my family and not alone. I had a hard time making friends. My English wasn't proper, and my accent too thick. I spent most of my time adjusting. Then college came, I was one of the top cream so they always had me participating and volunteering. I used to watch Rylen's games or news, I didn't have time to watch movies or shows at all," Roman explained.

"And now?" She asked.

"Don't get me wrong. I grew up watching Friends and Batman, but I was never interested in it as much as Reyanna and Papa were. Rylen and I would spend our time away from TV like our Mama. Rylen with books and video games. Me on studies or with Conan," Roman told her.

"You have no idea about my past," It wasn't a question.

"Conan asked me to Google you. I found it offensive now that I knew you. I told him if there was anything worth knowing, I would like to hear it from your mouth, not from Google," Roman's eyes conveyed his determination and honesty.

"You should have listened to Conan, Roman. I am nothing but damaged. You don't want anything, but a quick tumble from me," Ekaashi sat up covering herself with the bedsheet. Roman sat up as well.

"Ekaashi I am not forcing you, but I'll hear it from you. Not everything they write is true. But for now, sleep, querida," Roman wrapped his arm around her.

"I don't think I should," Ekaashi protested but didn't shrug off his arm.

He pulled her even close her scent had invaded his soul. He could never get enough of it.

"I am no one to force you, but I am told I am as good at cuddling as well. You are welcome to try," Roman said kissing the top of her head.

"Who told you that? Girlfriend?" Ekaashi asked snuggling into him.

"My sisters. Señorita, I am a total virgin when it comes to relationships. Never had a girlfriend," Roman told her making Ekaashi pull away and look at him.

"Are you being serious right now? No girlfriends?" She asked incredulously, Roman replied with a nod. "I've been in eight relationships. None lasted more than 8 months, except for one. It lasted 9 months," Ekaashi told him.

"Well as you heard, I am a one-night stand person. Your colleagues and a lot of people are in it for fun. That's what I did. I never found a person worth breaking the rule for, until you," Roman confessed.

"So you don't have problems with me having so many boyfriends?" She asked.

"As long as you have no problem with me being a bisexual," Roman shrugged.

"Bi?" Ekaashi half laughed. "You are becoming too damn interesting, Roman Raj Valdez," Ekaashi said poking his chest with her index finger.

"I was always interesting. It depends if you want to know me, or not because I am dying to know you," He said pulling her hand towards him earning a squeal from Ekaashi.

"I cannot deny that I want to know you too. Alright, I'll give us a try if you accept me with my past," Ekaashi's smile turned into a serious frown.

Roman kissed the space between her perfect eyebrows, making her frown vanish.

"You are welcome to test me, chica," Roman told her. "But you have an interview in the morning, don't want all those dark circles in the pictures," He said kissing her eyes.

"Hmm..." Ekaashi didn't say a word so Roman held her as he lay down. His bicep became her pillow as she snuggled to him. Roman pulled her closer to his chest where she could hear his heartbeat. That specific rhythm his heart thumped on, which was only for her.

____

A pillow hit Roman waking him up with a startle.

"You cheater!" A sweet voice was shouting.

"What?" Roman's voice was muffled with the pillow again.

Roman winced at the intensity of the hit. It took him five seconds to realize that the woman screaming was Ekaashi.

Before the pillow could hurt him again Roman stopped it and got up. He threw the pillow away and looked at a teary-eyed Ekaashi.

"What happened, mi amor?" Roman asked earning a slap.

"You cheated on me!....technically no....but you lied!" She screamed.

"What? When?" Roman was confused. What did he lie about?

"Your girlfriend just called! She asked me to tell you that she would be arriving here with your parents!" Ekaashi shouted.

"Girlfriend? Parents?" Roman was too confused.

"Oh my god! I heard it with my two ears! I mean one... but I heard it!" Ekaashi was seriously angry.

She was funny when she was angry. Contradicting what she said but still shouting and screaming.

"Chica, chica. Calm down. I have no girlfriend, and I definitely haven't introduced anyone to my parents," Roman tried to calm her down.

"You liar!" She hit his chest. "I heard it. I saw it!" She hit again.

Roman had enough of it. He held both of her hands as Ekaashi stopped, but fidgeted with tears in her eyes.

"Nombre de Dios, I want you to tell me what happened. I don't get what you are saying," Roman told her letting go of her hands.

Ekaashi glared at him but handed him his phone.

"Look, the contact name clearly says 'Babe'! She even greeted with a "Hola mijo or whatever it is girlfriends call their boyfriends in Spanish," Ekaashi told him.

Roman's eyes widened at her words as he checked his call logs. He looked up from his phone at Ekaashi and laughed.

"What are you laughing about?" She asked him, but Roman couldn't stop laughing.

Ekaashi was already dressed in her night clothes, except her robe which she was bending to get but Roman held her hands and pulled her towards him making it seem she was straddling him.

"Let me go, you cheater!" She tried to leave, but Roman chuckled at her efforts.

"Calm down!" He laughed.

"No! Let me go!" She protested.

Roman knew the only way to stop her behaving this way. He kissed her causing her to stop shouting, or wriggling from his grip.

Ekaashi was on top of Roman over the sheet that separated them, kissing each other deeply. He then pulled away from a stunned Ekaashi.

"That was my Abuela," Roman told her and Ekaashi looked at him with confusion. "My Papa's Mama, my grandmother. I call her babe. I was 6 when my Abuela asked me if I had a girlfriend, I told her she was my girlfriend. I call her babe since then. She called me mijo which means son, not darling or whatever you think. She said 'Hi son' when she called. I have no girlfriend or stalker, or a love interest I am hiding from you whatsoever," He clarified an open-mouthed Ekaashi.

He let his grip on her loose, and Ekaashi quickly scrambled away from him, her face red. She sat the foot of the bed, muttering something to herself which was very clearly audible to Roman.

"You are an idiot, Ekaashi. Of course, he wasn't lying. You just have to do this and ruin everything. That's his grandma, of course, she is, the lady sounded old. Stupid, stupid," She muttered to herself. It was quite loud for Roman to hear. He realized she was trying to talk to herself but was failing miserably.

Roman sighed and picked up his boxers, letting her cool off until then. He then walked and sat beside her. Ekaashi was holding her hands on her face muttering a line of colorful curses making Roman chuckle.

"You know you are too loud for a person who talks to themselves?" He piped in.

"Shit!" Ekaashi cursed and looked at Roman.

Roman felt his heart sink at the sight of this beautiful girl.

She must have cried a lot before she started hitting him. Without a word, Roman pulled her to him and soothed her luscious raven hair.

"Never ever do this to yourself," Roman told her as he felt her sob again. "Hey! Hey! No crying," He pulled her even closer. He didn't let her go until her sobs turned into sniffles. He dropped kisses on the top of her head until she stopped.

"I'm sorry," Ekaashi finally said to his shoulder.

"It's perfectly fine. It was a natural reaction. I mean what sane person calls their grandmother, 'Babe'?" Roman joked and heard her chuckle.

He pulled away to look at her face. She was a mess if he would be honest. Her hair was on her face, her face was red and dried tear marks were on her cheeks, but she was still stunning. Even with those wet eyelashes and zero makeup. So beautiful.

He combed the hair on her striking face away and wiped the rest of the tears.

"Never cry for a guy, Ekaashi. Never," Roman told her and Ekaashi nodded after a second. "Promise?" He asked, holding out his hand and Ekaashi held it after a few moments.

"I won't, until it's you," She told him. Roman's heart fluttered at her words.

"Even if it is me. You should never cry for a useless guy who has it even in his mind to break your heart. They don't deserve you if they hurt you," He told her sternly.

"I won't. Can I cry with him?" She asked innocently.

"That's your choice, querida," He smiled.

"What does that mean?" Ekaashi asked, "And mi amor?" She asked in a faint accent. Ekaashi speaking Spanish would be a sight. It sounded hot already.

"Querida is an endearment for sweetheart or dear. Mi amor means my love," Roman explained, but suddenly stopped moving when he realized what he just said.

"Oh, what can I call you in Spanish then?" Ekaashi asked. "It can't be mijo," She laughed and Roman snickered shaking his head.

"Anything you want, querida," He smiled.

"I might just call you something in my mother-tongue," She grinned.

"Bengali, right?" He asked.

"Yeah, how did you guess?" She asked him.

"My Mama is Indian and my Papa partially one, so I know a bit about it," He told her.

"So you know about the culture?" She asked him.

"A bit. Mama used to tell us about it. But I heard it mostly from Grammy and Grand Pabby. I know fish and rice is Bengali food, and something called Rash-hoola," He told her and Ekaashi laughed.

"It's called Rasgulla, dumbhead," She told him. "It's been a long time I've heard anything about Bengal though," She confessed.

"Really? You don't go home to meet your parents?" He asked her.

As he said parents Ekaashi stiffened. Roman saw her posture tensed. "I didn't mean to...when is your interview?" Roman asked looking the time. "You woke me up at 6:30?" He asked her trying to change the subject.

"Roman..."Ekaashi's voice was just above a whisper.

"Yeah?" He asked carefully. Her face was blank, void of any emotion.

"My parents are dead, Roman. I have no family," She told him emotionlessly.

Roman closed his eyes and internally cursed himself for being so inconsiderate. There was a reason she didn't talk about her family, and Roman was foolish enough to not realize that.

"I shouldn't have...I'm sorry, Ekaashi," He apologized. He kept his hand on her and smiled at her which she returned.

"It's okay. It was a long time back. Hollywood and Elle have been my home," She told him.

"Home is where the heart is, Señorita," Roman bumped his shoulder with her lightly, Ekaashi snickered.

He secretly wanted to be her home, her safe place. But that would be too soon too fast, they met just yesterday. Roman was being unnecessarily weird.

"True that," Ekaashi looked at Roman and smiled. Roman thought he couldn't breathe, it seemed as if she heard what he thought. "I should go, I might be just a floor above, but I have to get ready for that interview," She told him.

"Ekaashi?" Roman called as she got up.

"Yeah?" She asked and Roman got up as well.

He liked how short she was from him. He could easily place his chin on her head and she could hear his heartbeat. They were perfect.

"Can I take you out on a date?" Roman asked. "Wait, no, let me rephrase....Will you go on a date with me?" Roman asked a grinning Ekaashi.

"I will and I will," Ekaashi told him.

Roman walked closer to her, "Tonight, here in my room. 9pm. Can't endanger you with the paparazzi," He said in a husky voice.

"A date in the penthouse? That's interesting. I wonder what would we do here?" Ekaashi tapped her chin wriggling her eyebrows suggestively at Roman who still was partially naked.

"You are one pervert," Roman said suddenly grabbing Ekaashi's waist earning a gasp.

"I can't help when the Spanish Greek God is in front of me," She said wrapping her arms around Roman's neck. Roman's chest bubbled with happiness.

"Spanish Greek God? I like the sound of it," He said leaning his forehead against her.

"Obviously. But what about your parents and grandma?" Ekaashi asked.

"They would arrive in the noon if my Abuela is not bluffing. God, I hope she is," Roman said and looked in her entrancing eyes again. "We have another penthouse and a studio on the other wing for my parents and grandma, they always stay there," He told her.

"Won't they be expecting you at dinner?" She asked.

"Not really. They know I am busy with the guests," Roman smirked. Mirth dancing in his eyes.

"A lie? The great Roman Valdez is going to jeopardize the welfare of the guests, and lie to his parents for me?" Ekaashi's voice was sarcastic, but she spoke the truth.

"Anything for you...babe," Roman rubbed his nose with her.

"If you bring that up on our date you are so dead," She warned him.

"And if I do this after calling you...babe?" He asked kissing her beauty spot.

"I'll not think about killing you, maybe torture you a little," Ekaashi said weaving her hands through his hair making Roman shut off his eyes briefly.

She briefly brushed her lips against his as she let her lips linger like a ghost on his chest.

"And if I do this?" Roman's eyes were closed but his hands reached just beneath her bust caressing and massaging it slowly over her skimpy nightdress.

"I might just let you call me whatever you want," She gasped as his hands traced the curve of her breast.

"Thought so," Roman said lowering his hands towards her buttocks pulling her close, dipping his head and kissing her.

It wasn't until another hour that Roman escorted Ekaashi back to her room. He made sure no one saw them. Though Roman suggested showering together, Ekaashi said she might never give that interview, and Roman won't be able to reach his office downstairs.

That was a valid point.

He decided to leave showering to another day. Maybe if he got lucky at dinner, then he might seduce her to take a bath with him. Maybe not. It was worth a try.

___

The afternoon went painfully, Roman texted Ekaashi, but she replied she couldn't text back until the photo shoot was over. The wait to see her killed him inside. Roman knew it wasn't just attraction anymore. This was something else brewing up, and very fast.

It was almost 4 when his parents arrived, thankfully without his Abuela. Roman was glad when his Mama told him that his Gran-Tía Rosa was in town, and Abuela decided not to exert herself for Hugh Jackman who anyways didn't show up.

"So what have you planned for the trip?" Roman asked when they sat and had coffee.

"Your Papa has been asked to present an award," His Mama told him.

"Really? That's awesome," Roman quickly got up and hugged his Papa.

They had always been distant because he went to the USA and everything, but actually, they were pretty close.

"What are you awarding?" Roman asked as he took his seat.

"Best Actress," His father told him.

"Oh, that's great. Do Reya and Ry know?" He asked.

"Not yet. We thought we would tell them after we told you," His father said.

"Okay..." Roman was saying when Sam's voice boomed in his ear.

"Security alert!" The she-robo said.

"Sam, status!" Roman asked.

"The paparazzi are at the main gate again, Señor," She told him.

"Activate security barrier!" Roman said standing up.

What if Ekaashi was hoarded by those people again? He prayed she was safe.

"Suarez!" He called the security chief.

"We are at the gate, Señor. These people are getting hard to handle. I am calling backup," He told him.

"Mama, Papa I have to go. The paparazzi are trying to enter the resort," He told them and ran away without hearing anything.

When Roman reached the gate, he saw what he feared. Ekaashi was in between the paparazzi, trying to get out of the idiots who were hungry for anything they could get.

He ran towards her when he saw a cameraman touch her trying to get a picture. His blood boiled and he pushed the man away.

"How dare you!" He snarled at the particular cameraman. "Get out of the property or I am getting restraining orders for each and every one of you," Roman threatened. He activated the barrier on his planner again. Slowly filtering everyone out.

"Mr. Valdez, are you the new knight in shining armor for Ms. Ekaashi?" A guy asked.

"Get out!" Roman growled at the man, pushing most of the people. He wrapped his arms around Ekaashi and took her inside.

"Flora, identify these people. Call the police, tell them to send their enforcement," Roman ordered his assistant robo. Generally, her work was to organize the meetings and manage files, but these demands were in her programme too.

"Sí Señor," The robo said.

"Are you alright?" He asked a shivering Ekaashi.

"I am now," Ekaashi said warming to his touch, and snuggle a bit.

"Come on. I'll get you somewhere safe," He told her. With his arms wrapped around her, he took her towards his office, the closest place of privacy nearest to the gate.

He ordered Sam to tell housekeeping to send a coffee to his office.

"Are you fine? Did they hurt you, or harm you?" Roman asked worriedly sitting on the couch beside Ekaashi. His arms still wrapped around her.

"I'm fine. You shouldn't have created a scene like that. And police? Are you kidding me?" Ekaashi asked him pulling away.

"I am not going to risk your safety, Ekaashi. Those people were hoarding you! How do you live with that?" He asked her.

"I...It started just before I came here. Suddenly there was news that I was pregnant with my one of my ex-boyfriend's baby who I broke up with a year and a half before. Another rumor was passed that my latest ex, which was six months back, dumped me because of that, and we were engaged," She told him.

"Who did this?" Roman fisted his fingers because he wanted to kill someone to do that to her.

"Jerry Vales most probably. My team is trying to find out, but we haven't got anything yet," She told him.

"Leave it to me. I'll find that fucker," He told her.

"Roman... Oh my god, your knuckles are white, Roman. Are you kidding me?" Ekaashi took his hand in her and forced open his fist and caressed the nail marks. "You can't be that angry. It's just paparazzi," Ekaashi said intertwining her hand with his, and Roman looked at her furiously.

"That guy touched you! They were on you like you were some piece of meat, those savages! I am not letting you out of the resort with proper security. I'm sending half of Suarez' team with you. Rob, the surveillance bot, will design you a security shield the resort has, just portable like I have," He told her running his other hand through his hair.

"Roman, calm down," Ekaashi pleaded taking both his hands in hers.

"Ekaashi, I don't care if you don't want this or me. I am not letting you get hurt at any cost when I can help it. And whoever is behind these stupid rumors, I am going to make them pay," Roman told her with determination.

Without missing a beat, Ekaashi held Roman's face in her hands and kissed him slowly. Her kiss told him that she was glad he was there and she was safe with him. Roman kissed her back in reply that she could rely on him, and he would always protect her.

When they pulled away, Ekaashi kept her head on his shoulder as he caressed her hair. There was a knock on the door making Ekaashi immediately sat in an alert position, and Roman walked to get the door. He cursed the timing of the person. Ekaashi was finally in his arms and it was peaceful. Truly peaceful.

He wasn't surprised to see the housekeeping with Ekaashi's coffee, but he was surprised to see his parents outside as well.

"Place it near the table, there," Roman told Ray, the housekeeping guy with the coffee tray.

"Mama, Papa. Come on in," Roman called them inside. They looked worried.

"Is the guest alright, Rom?" His Mama asked as the guy poured her coffee.

Roman motioned to Ekaashi who was looking at the coffee tray.

"Ask her yourself," He said as he went towards Ekaashi, and dismissed the housekeeping guy.

"Ms. Chatterjee?" Roman changed to his professional tone.

"Yes?" She sipped her coffee, unaware of the foreign presence.

"You have visitors," He said and Ekaashi finally looked at Roman's parents and smiled.

"Mr. and Mrs. Valdez!" She said and got up.

Roman's Mama instantly hugged her.

"You poor girl. Are you alright?" She asked her as they pulled away.

"I am alright, just a bit stunned," She told her.

"We'll make sure this never happens," His Papa spoke as Ekaashi bent to touch his feet, but he stopped her, and hugged her. Ekaashi seemed stunned for a minute, but then smiled and hugged Reyan back.

"I'm sure you will. Ro...Mr. Valdez did save me back there. Twice in a row," Ekaashi told him.

"Twice?" Reyan asked his son.

"They breached the barrier when she arrived yesterday. Suarez was trying, but they were too many. Today it was worse. I called in for the police force," He told him. Anger was evident in his voice.

As Sam's voice boomed in his ear, Roman excused himself from his parents and almost-girlfriend and went out of his room.

"Yes, Sam?" Roman asked reaching the reception.

"The police force is here, Señor Valdez," Sam told him.

"Good job, Sam, Flora," Roman told the bots and went to talk to the Chief.

After explaining everything to him, and telling him about the scenario, the police Chief and Roman decided that the force will patrol on the outskirts of the resort. They will not let anyone enter except for a list of guests, and staff with their ID cards.

When he left, Roman asked Suarez to order Rob to make a portable security barrier for a human. Suarez smiled to himself but didn't ask questions just ordered Rob. He knew as well, Roman shook his head.

Roman returned back to his office and found his parents and Ekaashi in a deep conversation.

"Rom!" His Mama exclaimed, and he raised an eyebrow.

She never got so excited unless she wanted him to do anything for her.

"Yes, Mama?" He asked.

"Ekaashi told us how you saved her both the times," She told him.

"Okay?" Roman couldn't understand.

"So as she was saying, Ekaashi wants to thank you by taking you to dinner," She told him and Roman raised his eyebrows.

"It's no need for that. I have talked to the police. They asked for minimum activity, and they are patrolling the perimeter. Rob has strengthened the security barrier which is to be active all the time. Sebastian Darley and some others were almost hoarded by the paparazzi," Roman informed them.

"Oh no, poor him," Ariana seemed like she sympathized the lying pig.

"Not really. The news of him cheating on that director came out in the morning. He was found with another man, pictures, and everything. Serves him right, they were going to get engaged. Creep," He told them, sitting beside Ekaashi which was in his defense the only place left.

"Oh my god!" Ekaashi looked surprised.

"When did you get interested in movies and celebrities?" Reyan enquired.

"Since they came here. I realized I have to be up to date with all the problems I would have to tackle. Remember last year's fight?" He reminded his father looking Ekaashi with the corner of his eyes. She bit her lip, but her blush was evident. She had to stop. It was killing him.

"I cannot forget it," Reyan groaned.

"Me neither. It was pathetic those two pretty women fighting over a man," Ariana shook her head.

"I know about it. It created two teams in Hollywood. Glad I didn't have to choose," Ekaashi said.

"It was a good source of memes that's what I care about," Roman piped in. "And it created a good publicity for the resort. Papa handled it quite well," He commented.

"That's rude, you shouldn't say stuff like that, Roman!" Ekaashi chided him and he rolled his eyes.

"Why? They were crying over a man who was screwing another man! He wasn't worth it!" He said.

"Seems like Rom researched the whole story, huh, Reyan?" Ariana spoke.

"Yeah. Finally, this boy gets how important it is to know about the media. They both are just like you," Reyan pointed at Ariana.

"Me? Forgive me for being busy enough to watch stupid shows," Ariana argued.

"'Friends wasn't stupid!" Reyan defended. "You wouldn't get over your stupid books! Now one of my daughters is married to a writer!" He complained.

"She isn't married yet, Reyan. For the love of god, don't fight because of the kids. They are old enough," Ariana chided him.

"You always point me out. I was doing the same. Roman doesn't eat pickles, it's because of you Reyan. Rylen swears like a sailor, it's because of you Reyan. Reyanna is wearing short clothes, it's because of you Reyan! The world is going to end because of you, Reyan!" Reyan scoffed.

"Guys!" Roman cut in. "We are not at home, we have company," He reminded them. His parents looked sheepishly at each other, and then with embarrassment at Ekaashi who was watching them with a smile.

"I don't mind. I like seeing this type of a relationship, maybe one day get something like this for me," She sighed and realized that she said it out loud. "Oh god! I didn't mean to say that!" Ekaashi waved her hand.

"As long as you ignore our banter, we never heard you," Reyan said.

"Deal!" She said, and they high-fived.

"I think we should let her be for some time. Rom, please escort Ekaashi to her room. Make sure she's comfortable," His Mama said and Roman finally got what she was trying.

His Mama was trying to set him up with Ekaashi Chatterjee. It couldn't be more perfect.

"Sure, Ma. Shall we, Señorita?" He asked, and saw Ekaashi biting her lip to stop herself from smiling.

Roman had to think about Sebastian Darley to keep a flat face, or he would blow off their pretense.

"Yes. Thanks," She said and stood up.

"I'll see you at dinner?" Roman asked his parents.

"I and your Papa are eating out so don't bother. Eat with Conan or someone," His Mama said nonchalantly. She was far from nonchalant.

"Con is spending the day with Nica after their confession last night," He informed them.

"He confessed finally?" His Papa asked.

"Both did. Idiots I tell you," He shook his head.

"Esme will be so happy. Finally, her boy confessed!" His Mama said excitedly.

"Yeah, you tell her. I'll go escort Ms. Chatterjee to her room," He told him, but her parents were busy talking by then. He shook his head and motioned Ekaashi to leave.

They didn't talk the whole way, both were smiling while they walked fast towards Ekaashi's room. Roman was itching to touch her, have her in his arms again. Ekaashi motioned to keep distance in the lift as well. Roman knew it as soon as a few people entered after they did.

The glass elevators weren't a good place for romance when you were hiding your affair. As they reached in front of her room, Ekaashi faced him while placing her fingerprint on the lock. It clicked open.

"Thank you for today," She said, her eyes gleamed with mischief.

"It's my duty, Señorita," Roman said in a playful tone.

"Would you like to come in for a moment?" She asked subtly looking for any audience.

"If you insist, Señorita," He replied confirming there was no one to see them.

Ekaashi walked in and Roman followed her. As soon he was inside enough to close the door, he held her hand and pinned her closing the door behind her.

He pinned her arms to the sides of her head and kissed her furiously.

"What's the hurry?" Ekaashi said as Roman pulled away, and kissed her neck.

"I couldn't wait any longer to have you back in my arms. It's been a whole day," He said dropping kisses on her throat. She seemed to like it a lot.

"Me too. Your parents are trying to set us up," She said with a moan as he nuzzled her neck dropping kisses time to time.

Roman's hands left hers on the door, and he grabbed her waist pulling her closer.

"I couldn't wish for anything better," Roman said and kissed her again.

If he knew kissing so much could feel so good, he would have done it before. Maybe it was kissing her that he liked. Maybe she is the one.

"Me too," Ekaashi said pulling away for a moment before kissing him with an open-mouthed kiss.

"What's the thing with the dinner?" He asked as Roman's hands traveled inside her top.

"They asked me about the paparazzi attacks and I told them how you saved me, and I wanted to do something for you in return like taking you on a thank you dinner," She gasped as his hands caressed her spine.

"You are one clever woman. I'm lucky you are mine," He told her kissing her shoulders.

Ekaashi stiffened and pulled away only to look at him.

"Yours?" She asked. Roman's hands still on her waist.

Did he offend her?

"You said you would give us a chance," Roman pointed out.

"No, not about that. I didn't even say yes, but you called me yours," Ekaashi pointed.

"I want you to be mine. I didn't mean like a property or something," He clarified.

"I know that," Ekaashi said but walked away from him. "I know what you mean, and I know that being with me will hurt you. You saw what happened outside. I cannot let something like that happen to you," She told him.

"It won't, querida. It won't because the difference in what happened downstairs, and here is that I am with you. I'll protect you from everything," He took a step towards her.

"You can save me in the future, but what about the past?" Ekaashi asked. "I have a past which will make you turn your back on me like everyone has. Roman, I do not have friends except for Elle and my PR. And Mel sticks with me because of her job!" Ekaashi exclaimed taking a step back. "I push people away," She whispered in a quiet voice.

"I just want to say one thing to you, Ekaashi," Roman decided to stay where he was. "I don't care about your past. I know you are broken and reserved. I can see it in your eyes. I don't want to fix you, I cannot fix you. I have no power to do that. But what I can do is stay with you. I need you in my life, I really do. I am a lonely man, querida. I work and I sleep. You have made these two days the most exciting days of my boring life and I want more. I crave for the excitement you bring along with the happiness more than anything. I like you as you are, broken or not," He told her with complete seriousness. "I promise to stick with you if you let me," He almost begged.

"You won't, Roman. No one does," She turned her face away. He knew she had tears in her eyes.

"Try me," His voice had authority.

"If this makes you realize that I am far too broken for you, then so be it," Ekaashi said and faced him again.

She motioned for him to sit down. He did on the couch in her room, and Ekaashi sat on the other one. Though Roman felt hurt by her actions, he didn't say anything. He decided to sit and hear her story. He needed her in his life, he had to know her and her difficulties so he could be there for her in every way he could.

"I was born in a small town of Kolkata. My father was in the army so I hardly knew him. He died, when I was 7, in Kashmir during a vigilante attack. All I knew was that he loved me very much, maybe more than he loved my mother. Before he went to the border, he gave me a ring, saying that it was a token so I could look at it and remember him that ways he would never be away from me," Ekaashi rubbed the kiddish ring in her small finger of her right hand. Roman smiled sadly.

"I loved my father a lot. I didn't know about his death until they brought his body home. I remember crying for my father that day. I prayed to the god in my house temple to bring him back to me. I remember that it was the day that my happy childhood was ruined," She sighed. Roman could see her choking a bit. He wanted to hold her but refrained himself. "I did not have any grandparents you see. My parents ran away to get married because he was a Bengali and my mother was a Muslim. So my mother and I were alone after his death. Not like we weren't before, but this time my father would never come back or call from work. My mother worked as a saleswoman in the only mall in our area. The mall did not work much because they had opened shopping complexes, and they were new and easily accessible and better than malls. My mother won't get her salary for months and we had to save a lot. She even shifted me to a government school where there were no fees for children like us. I was 9 when one day my mother came home drunk. I was sitting in my room doing my homework and she barged in. She screamed at me for being the reason of my father's death. I cried, I was a 9-year-old girl who lost her beloved father. When she had screamed, she went away to her room and locked it, and slept until next morning. I thought it was scary but what happened the next few years every night haunt me in my dreams," Ekaashi choked. She had tears in her eyes, she was sniffling already.

"You don't have to continue," Roman assured her.

"I have to. You have to see the baggage you have to carry if you chose me," She wiped her tears.

Ekaashi didn't speak, she got up and went inside the washroom. She came outside with a towel in her hand and sat beside Roman. She unzipped her top and sat as her back faced Roman.

"Can you wipe my back because what you should know can only be seen. I cannot tell you in words," She told him. Roman took the towel from her hands hesitantly. He realized it was wet, Ekaashi unclasped her bra as Roman's hands trembled holding that towel. He figured what she was making him see, he might not have the power to see it.

"Do it, Roman, do it," Ekaashi told him.

Roman took in a deep breath and gently wiped her back with the wet towel. Nothing happened, he continued to do it gently until he saw the towel was staining. It was makeup that was getting off on the towel. He gasped when he saw what the makeup hid. It was worse than what he imagined.

He thought there will be marks. But these were burn wounds. As if Ekaashi was burnt continuously.

"D...di..oos m...mio, mi amor," He traced the scar gently as if it was new. His hands trembled as he put the towel down.

Ekaashi faced him, he understood why Ekaashi was so closed and reserved.

"We had an iron rod we used to warm water in winters. It left scars," She told him.

"She did this to you every day?" Roman didn't know how he could speak.

"Every night. There are others along with this. Her favorite was the rod, she used belt sometimes. My father's belts," She told him. "Never stuck me on my hands or legs or my face said she wasn't monster enough to destroy them. I didn't believe her. She left those places which couldn't be seen in my school uniform. Gagged me when she tortured me. Made me work as a maid in houses after school. Never gave me the money I earned. I tried telling my friend's mother. Shiv's mother, but she didn't understand what I meant. She thought I meant my mother punished me for being naughty. So she went to my mother and asked her to be gentle with me. That night, I received what you just saw. I couldn't bend for days," She told him.

"Ekaashi stop please," Roman was on the verge of tears but Ekaashi smiled and shook her head. "One of the maids working with me got me work at a Bengali movie writer's house. I used to go there and worked little chores helping the lady who got me work. They were good people, gave me food when I would come. The place was far away from home so they sent a helper with me to home. One day that helper saw my mother hitting me, I went home late and mother was home. He went back and informed my mistress. The next day I woke up in the hospital and learned my mother was arrested," She said and Roman sighed with relief.

"I was 14 then. They took me in, even paid for my medicines, in return I worked without money. I couldn't have paid them back anyways. Some scars fade with time, some stayed. One day when I was dusting the owner's room, I saw a script sitting there. I went through it, movies had always fascinated me. So I tried to enact a scene. What I didn't know was that the writer was standing behind me, watching me say those lines. I apologized when I realized that he has listened, but he told me to wear good clothes and come with him. He took me to a director I knew pretty well. Told him I was perfect for a role, but my body was damaged. Then he asked me to recite the lines again. I did. The director told me that he wanted me to work with him. I said okay, I liked to act and dance even though I was damaged. They said makeup could do anything and so it did. I was recognized and appreciated. Roles came through and before I knew I got my first award. I could never thank the writer, and his family what they did for me, an unknown girl," She told him.

"There was a terrible accident, and the writer and his family lost their lives. I was scared, with them gone, my mother would hurt me. Then I saw there was an audition for an English show, and I decided that this was my chance to get away from my past. Shiv's family kept me, I still didn't have a place to stay. It wasn't much later when they called to tell they selected me. I grabbed the opportunity to run away and never came back. Three years back when my story got leaked by my first boyfriend, they made a documentary on it. It was enough sympathy for me to get cast in movies and shows, but enough damage to drive away people. No one stayed long enough when they realized I was a walking PTSD. I saw therapists, they tried fixing me and failed. I can't be fixed, Roman. I can't be fixed," She broke into a sob and Roman couldn't hold any longer. He hugged her tightly. Soothed her hair as she cried, tears flowed from his eyes well.

She had a rough past, a past she couldn't let go even if she tried. She was past fixing, nothing he could do was good enough to remove those bad memories.

"My mother was released from the jail after the family died, I was an adult by then. Thankfully I was in LA. Shiv told me she looked for me, but he didn't tell her about me. She died four years back from alcohol poisoning. That's when I was too emotional and told my then boyfriend about her. He leaked it to a magazine. It was my luck that they posted it before asking me," She told him sniffling.

"Will you say anything? You are planning to leave, aren't you? I don't blame you. But just let me stay like this for a few moments before you run away from me," Ekaashi said as she hugged Roman tightly.

"If you think I am going to leave you after this, you are mistaken. I am not letting you out of my sight ever again," Roman told her.

Ekaashi pulled away and looked at Roman with disbelief.

"You are kidding me," She didn't believe him.

"I am not joking, querida. Your story told me that it was the right decision to hear it from you. You are not an emotional baggage, querida. You are the bravest person I know. I could never be half the brave person you are. You suffer each day and still stand confidently. If I didn't know it before I do now. I was falling for you till this morning. I am in love with you from this minute, and I don't think it could fade away even if you kick me out of your life," Roman told her, he kissed a stunned Ekaashi's forehead.

"You are in love with me? She asked.

"I am querida. I am pretty sure of it now," Roman told her.

"I love you too, Roman Valdez, the minute you saved me from the paparazzi," Ekaashi told him.

Roman hugged her again, tightly enough to believe this wasn't a lie.

"Ekaashi, I need to see you," Roman told her.

"You can see me, Roman," Ekaashi chuckled at the stupid statement.

"I mean the whole you, with your scars," Roman told her and Ekaashi once again broke their embrace to gape at Roman.

"You really want to?" She asked him.

"I do," He nodded and Ekaashi kissed him without missing a beat.

"I love you," She told him.

"And I love you," He replied not missing a moment to say it back.

"I'll show them to you, but not yet," Ekaashi hesitated.

"Take your time, querida. But don't be late for the date tonight," Roman kissed her forehead.

"We are still on for the date?" She asked.

"I didn't realize you said no," Roman tilted his head in confusion and Ekaashi shook her head with a smile.

"I'll be there," She told him.

"Good. If you excuse me, I have a date to impress," He said standing up and bowed her.

"Of course. I hope you get lucky tonight," She winked and bowed.

"I fully intend to. See you later, querida," Roman kissed her cheek and left the room.

And he did get lucky that night, and the next morning and the next night. In fact, Roman thought he was the luckiest man on the planet to have Ekaashi. She was so good and brave and he was falling for her every day and every minute he spent with her.

He knew a lot about her now and didn't need to Google it. He even got the portable security barrier for Ekaashi. It was weird for the paparazzi to get an electric shock when they forcefully came near her. Ekaashi couldn't be more happy with it.

They had talked everything in those 8 days. From dogs to marriage and kids. Even how they are going to reveal it to the world. It is going to be on the day of the festival. His parents knew about them the very next day of their confession. To say Roman's mother was happy was an understatement, he feared she might leak the news. His father, grandparents, and sisters were happy for him as well. When Ekaashi told her story to everyone via holo-chat, all of them cried. Even his Duke brother-in-law and Roman's father. They all accepted her wholeheartedly.

There was some news that said Roman and Ekaashi might be seeing each other, but nobody confirmed it. Mel, Ekaashi's PR wanted them to go public and agreed that the Madrid Film Festival Red Carpet was the best place to do so.

"Rom, I'll see you at the Red Carpet," Ekaashi told him while they were on the call.

She called him Rom now. Ekaashi liked it since she heard Roman's mother call him that.

"I want to see you now, Kaashi. I haven't seen you the whole day," Roman whined.

He called her Kaashi in return. Ekaashi said it was stupid and not innovative, but loved anything which came from his mouth.

"You saw me in the morning when we made love," Ekaashi was rolling her eyes, Roman could imagine it.

"But it's noon and the Red Carpet won't start until 5 hours! Then another few hours till I can have you in my arms!" He complained.

"Patience, Rom. All good things come to those who wait," Ekaashi chuckled.

"No, no, querida. You are the best and best things come to those who grab the chance," He smirked.

"What if I promise you a treat tonight?" Ekaashi suggested.

"What type of treat?" Roman was curious.

"It includes you, me, jacuzzi, bathtub and the shower in your penthouse," There was a seductive tone in her voice. Frankly, it was enough to drive Roman mad and follow her orders like a slave.

"I want more," He demanded. "I am not seeing my girl for 10 hours, I want more," His voice was deeper than he intended.

"What more?" Ekaashi asked in a whisper.

"I'll tell you when we meet," Roman told her.

"Okay. I can do that. See you in 5 hours...babe," She laughed and hung up.

Babe was still their secret joke. Roman sighed and decided to work until he saw the girl who lit up his life like an ever-glowing night sky. The five-year age gap didn't matter to either of them until the other one was happy. Happiness was what mattered.

The only thing that irked Roman was that Ekaashi and he didn't live in the same continent. They were far away from each other. He couldn't ask her to leave everything, acting was what gave her a new and better life. While Roman's family was in Spain and his work as well. How would they manage?

Roman shrugged away the bad thoughts, there was still time in her leaving for LA. The shooting for the season second of her show wouldn't start until next month, and Ekaashi decided she would stay with Roman until then.

Finally, 5 hours passed, if Roman might add, slowly. He and Ekaashi had decided to color coordinate. She was to wear gray, what it was, was unknown to Roman. He, therefore, had to wear gray as well. His tux was silver gray, though he didn't know what type of gray Ekaashi was wearing.

Mel called him to tell that Ekaashi wanted to meet him before they left for the Festival. Roman was happy without a doubt, but he was confused as well. It was decided that they would be meeting after reaching, what was Ekaashi up to?

He knocked her room door and Mel opened it. She looked ready for the gala. Without a word, she went out of the room. There was a look of annoyance on her face which confused Roman even more.

"Kaashi?" He asked after closing the door behind him.

"In here," She said from the closet.

Roman walked inside only to see Ekaashi standing in darkness.

"What's up?" Roman asked curiously.

"I wanted to give you your wish," Ekaashi said confusing Roman even more.

"What do you mean? I thought we were seeing each other at the Festival?" He asked. "Are you planning to cancel going?"

"No, the other one. Of seeing me, like I am," Ekaashi said and appeared into the light.

She wasn't wearing her gray dress, she wasn't wearing anything just her scars. Tears welled up in Roman eyes as he saw the amount of burns and marks on her skin.

"The only people who have seen me like this is my team, the makeup, my stylist, and Mel. That was because of my profession," She told him as Roman slowly walked up to her.

"Why today?" He asked as his voice choked. Roman fisted his fingers to stop him from crumbling at the sight of her.

"Because it's time I show this to the world. But before I had to show it to my world," She smiled.

Roman held her hands and brought it to his lips and kissed them.

"I... I don't...I don't know what to say," Roman stammered, holding her hands tightly.

"Don't then. Just have a look at what you have to deal with if you stay with me. That's me and my baggage," She said pulling her hands away from him and caressing Roman's face lovingly. "I don't blame you if you change your mind," She told him.

Why would she think he would leave her? How could someone leave a woman like her? She was so brave and fearless. She had immense strength that he had never seen in someone.

Roman traced the scar just under her bust gently. It seemed like it was a cut once. He bent down and kissed it. There was nothing sexual in the kiss, just respect.

Roman kissed all her scars slowly showing Ekaashi that he loved her and her scars and all her baggage. When he finished kissing the scars, he stood up and faced Ekaashi who was crying.

He took out his handkerchief and carefully wiped off her tears carefully without messing up with her makeup.

"Mel was already annoyed, you don't want that frown on her face because you ruined your makeup," Roman joked and Ekaashi chuckled. "I love you, Kaashi. That isn't going to change. Not now, not ever," He told her and kissed her forehead.

"Roman...." He didn't let her speak just pecked those blood red lips of hers gently.

"Get dressed and meet me at the festival. They will say a lot of things, but remember that I will always love you, scars or not. I love you, Ekaashi Chatterjee, you are not a baggage to me, never were, never will be," He told her and kissed her forehead and smiled before leaving the closet and her room with his hands balled into a fist.

Roman rushed to his room, and then he finally lost all the control he had in front of her. Tears finally left his eyes and flowed on his face. He held his head in his hands. His Ekaashi had suffered so much, so much and she was here, standing confidently to show the world that she is unbreakable. He thought if he shouldn't do what he was supposed to do because he didn't deserve a goddess like her.

All his life, Roman's Mama told him and his sisters about women, goddesses who sacrificed themselves for the better of the people. Ekaashi was one of them, and he had nothing, but respect for her. How could he be like her? So strong when all he felt was pain when she showed him her wounds. How could he be strong for her tonight when he wants to cry and hide? How will he control himself when she comes out like this in public? How?

His phone rang, and on the call was the person he wanted to talk to. He told the caller everything happened today, his ideas and plans. It wasn't a long call but as it ended, Roman Valdez was sure of himself. He was sure what he was going to do.

Mel called and said Ekaashi was ready. She would leave from the back gate, and before her Roman would leave the front one. He would be the first from them to enter the Red Carpet. His parents were long gone. His mother even texted that when she was asked about him she said he would arrive with his date later. The curiosity amongst the Spanish media was increasing.

His heart was beating wildly when he arrived at the Festival. The media was all over the place, celebrities were taking pictures, making live stories, basically, the place was very lively. He got off and got a lot of flashes instantly.

"Mr. Valdez, who are you wearing?" One asked.

"Mr. Valdez your mother said you will be appearing with a date, where is she?" Another one asked.

"Did you really send a resume for being Ekaashi Chatterjee's bodyguard?" Another one asked.

He sighed and smiled for the paparazzi. He was to answer only to the hosts tonight, or Mel would have his head.

He waved at people standing behind the railing.

When he got the message that Ekaashi was approaching Roman made his way to the host.

"Mr. Roman Valdez!" The woman chirped.

"Hola, Remy," He greeted her.

"So are you excited about your father presenting an award?" She asked.

"Absolutely. It's an honorable moment for the family. Though we all wished that my sisters could make an appearance, but that wasn't so," He told her with a smile.

"That reminds me, how do you feel about the news of your sister, the Duchess of Devonshire's pregnancy?" She asked.

"I hope the baby looks like their uncle," He joked.

"What a beautiful baby would that be," Remy gushed. "Who are you wearing tonight?" She asked.

"Alexander McQueen," He told her.

"And you came here alone?" Remy's eyes sparkled.

"No, my date just entered," He said motioning at Ekaashi who got off from the car.

"Is that Ekaashi Chatterjee?" She looked surprised.

"The one and only, if you'll excuse me," He said and walked towards her.

His pace increased as he heard gasps from the people. Everyone stopped talking and looked at her. Except for the flashes, everything was stilled.

As soon as Roman reached her, Ekaashi's unsure face brightened with a smile.

"Hey there, gorgeous," Roman greeted her with a peck on the cheek.

"Hey to you too, handsome," She grinned.

"Nervous?" He asked as he held out his hand.

"Not anymore," She smiled and took it.

As Ekaashi and Roman walked towards the hall, the chatter returned. Ekaashi wore a revealing slate grey ball gown with shimmer all over. Her bodice was made of glass. It had a plunging neckline and a criss-cross for the back with the skirt coming down to her toes and a small trail behind her.

As they walked hand in hand, the paps shouted their name. They asked them to pose and the same question was repeated, what were these scars?

Roman realized that Ekaashi was telling the truth when she said she had no friends. Everyone was staring at her like she was an alien. She had come out to the public bravely. Roman couldn't help, but look proud of his girl.

Soon the programme started, and it was time for his father to go on the stage for presenting the award.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen," His father greeted everyone. "It has been an immense pleasure to become host to the world's most powerful, respected and talented people. I along with the whole De la Cruz family thank you for the honor," He thanked. "And for the award, I am here to present, the best actress..." He said and opened the card he held along with the trophy. "Oh..." He paused again and looked at Roman and then the card.

Roman understood what he meant. He excused himself from Ekaashi who looked confused but didn't say a thing. He quickly walked out the door when his father announced Ekaashi Chatterjee. Roman made his way to the backstage as fast as he could. There Mel was standing looking at Ekaashi who took the award from Reyan and then touched his feet and then hugged him.

"Thank you, Madrid," She breathed out. "It's been amazing to see you all tonight," She said and the crowd cheered. "Before I thank everyone I want to for this award, I want to say something else," She said. Roman knew what she was going to say.

"Four years ago when the news about my childhood came, I was the center of attention for everyone. I cannot be grateful for my audience, and my colleagues to take it so positively. I thank Mr. Wilder for making the documentary to show my childhood to the world. Today I stand before you, like I am, without the prosthetics, without makeup on my body, showing myself to everyone because I believe that you, as my motivators, my fans need to see me as who I am, and not what I pretend to be. I have scars from the past, a lot of them. Some look gruesome, some don't, but this is what makes me what I am today. And I stand here thanking every one of my team members to stick beside me even when I was too much to handle. Mel, my PR and friend, Zen, my makeup artist, Kara my stylist. L'Oreal, for their immense support. Thank you, everyone," She paused.

"Last but not the least I want to thank my directors, my colleagues from Detached, who made me capable of this award. Thank you so much! And I would like to thank Roman Valdez without whom I wouldn't have taken this decision of showing my true self. Thank you, Roman, I cannot thank you enough for your love. Thank you, Mr. Adreyan Valdez, for giving me this award. It's an honor receiving it from you. Thank you!" Ekaashi held up the award a and the crowd roared in applause.

The guests stood up for a standing ovation. Roman could see tears in Ekaashi eyes. Reyan patted her shoulder and Ekaashi hugged him in happiness.

As they pulled away Ekaashi turned to leave, but Reyan stopped her.

"Ekaashi, I know you might have a lot of fans, but this young man claims to be your biggest fan. Would you give him a chance to meet you tonight?" He asked.

"Of course," Ekaashi said but she was confused.

"Please everyone put your hands together for Ekaashi Chatterjee's number one fan!" Reyan announced and stepped back as Roman entered the stage.

He saw Ekaashi's eyes grow wide as she looked at his father, and then at Mel who was clapping with happiness.

"Hi!" Roman said and the crowd cheered.

"What are you doing here?" Ekaashi asked.

"Meeting my role model," He said and swore he heard a few awws from the audience.

When Ekaashi didn't speak, Roman thought of it as his chance to continue.

"I know it's confusing. My Papa just announced a fan's entry, but instead, I came," He addressed the crowd. His heart was hammering inside. It was a bad idea! "The truth is I had never met or saw Ekaashi Chatterjee before she came to my resort, 8 days back. So how can I be her fan?" He pointed out.

"The thing is that I am her number one fan not just because I love her acting, or her down to earth nature. That is also a reason. I am one because she's the bravest woman I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. She's the strongest and the most amazing person I know. Sorry Ma," He joked. "Ekaashi and I met when I came to shield her during the paparazzi attack the night she came to my resort. I didn't know her then, but we became friends. Little I know, a friend was only a cover. I had fallen in love with her," He said looking at her and the crowd aww-ed again.

"I was attracted, I admit. But I fell when I saw how brave she was. That's what I find the most alluring about her. Her bravery, years as a child she bore hate of the mother who gave birth to her. Years she went through pain and didn't have someone to save her. But I want to change it now," He stopped and looked at Ekaashi who was gaping at him.

Roman bent on one knee and took out the ring her mother got for Ekaashi when he told her he wanted to marry her. Ekaashi slapped her hands on her mouth, her eyes wide with surprise.

"Ekaashi Chatterjee, I know we belong to different worlds. I know you are an actress, the best, according to the trophy. Whereas I am just a CEO of a resort chain, one of the many. I know I don't deserve the goddess you are about whom my mother told me when I was young. I know that I can do nothing to fix your past. But what I also know is that I will give you enough good memories that overshadow those bad ones if you let me. When you fall, you won't be alone. I might not be strong enough, but I won't let you fall alone. It's fast, we met 8 days back, but I want to spend all of my life with you. You are my one true love. So will you give me the honor of being your useless husband and marry me?" He asked.

Dios knew how nervous he was. When his Papa called him while Roman cried sitting in his office, he told Roman no matter what they would support him. They loved Ekaashi like their daughter and would love to really have her as one. He encouraged him telling no one was perfect, but he could try being what she needed. Good things come to those who wait. Best thing comes to those who never stop trying. And here he was ready to try, try for her, for them.

"Oh my god! Oh my god!" Ekaashi muttered.

"Say something," Roman prompted. He could sit there all day, but the organizers would kill him if they took so much time.

"Oh my god, Rom. I...I...no one said something like to me ever. Like they needed me like they wanted me. I...I know it's pathetic and stupid, but I have never had this appreciation. I am already in love with you, and I think I fell a bit more right now. So yes I will marry you because we deserve each other. Actress and the CEO," Ekaashi said.

Roman stood up on his feet and slipped the ring in Ekaashi's finger and kissed her.

The crowd cheered as the hosts came up on the stage.

"Madrid is never going to forget this night," Remy joked.

"Neither are we, Remy," Reyan said as both Roman and Ekaashi bent to touch his feet.

"Welcome to the family, Ekaashi," He told her as they stepped down. The applause didn't fade.

Roman stepped aside and let Ekaashi take all the applause, and credit for her bravery.

"Aren't you two the cutest?" Her mother cooed and hugged both of them as they returned to their seats.

People were congratulating them. Unknown people who never tried associating with Ekaashi were now congratulating her, weird, but Roman was happy. Ekaashi was stepping out and probably making friends.

"It's all her," Roman intertwined his hands with Ekaashi's.

"Wait until the headlines. The heartthrob CEO sweeps the actress of her feet," Ekaashi told him as they sat down.

"Would you mind if I actually do it?" Roman joked.

"Shut up. Now I know what more you wanted," She whispered.

"With you, it's always going to be more," Roman kissed her temple and grinned.

He saw his parents who looked pretty content seeing the newly engaged couple. He smiled at his now fiancé.

Finally, he too found his love. Roman realized that it's what his parents always said.

Love will find always its way.

The like-minded tomboy and the shy, nerdy footballer did.

Contrasting natures mauve and silver, the Duke and the wedding planner did.

And the actress and the CEO did.

****

Spanish Tanslations:

Señorita: Miss

Querida: Sweetheart

Mi amor: my love

Chica: Girl

Gran-Tía: Great Aunt

Señor: Sir

Hola: Hello/ Hi

Sí: Yes

****

FINALLYYYY!!!!! 

I am done with this story! I am so happy you know. Reyanna, Rylen and Roman are like my kids just like their parents and I am so happy to know my kids are happy with their soulmates.

So here are Ariana, Reyan, Reyanna, Rylen and Roman along with Natasha, Naina and Aryan signing off. Oh and Juan, Sanchez, Conan, Nica, Olivia and Mark too! And Kai and Sam and Beth! You get it...

Loads of love from them to you all

Let them know how much you liked them, loved them, hated them, disliked them, anything!

We'll be waiting!

Until...

Racs