Master of his heart (Max and Brielle)
Chapter 1570

As Aubree admired the spread of delicious dishes laid out on the table, a warm smile crept onto her face. She reached into her bag and pulled out a watch, then gently took Matthew's hand and slipped it onto his wrist.

Matthew was caught off guard. He hadn't expected this, and his body tensed up in surprise when he saw the watch gleaming on his wrist. "Is this for me?" he asked, a hint of disbelief in his voice. Aubree nodded, and Matthew's face lit up as he wrapped her in a tight hug. "Aubree, I'm over the moon! This is the first time you've ever given me a gift."

As he spoke, Aubree realized she had never really thought about this. She had always let him bridge the gap between them, accepting his gestures without much thought. How had she missed this? "Matthew, I'm sorry," she murmured.

"There's nothing to apologize for, not to me or anyone else. You've already given me what I treasure most. But getting gifts from you makes me incredibly happy," he said, his joy evident.

Matthew's happiness was infectious, and it seemed like he was easy to please. But over time, Aubree found out that this side of him was reserved just for her.

Later that evening, she was set to attend a banquet, one that Matthew was also going to. The event was brimming with business elites and a sprinkle of celebrities. Aubree, being quite the name, walked the red carpet before making her way into the bustling main hall. Just as she turned a corner, she overheard someone pouring their heart out to Matthew. She recognized the voice-it was the supporting actress from Casey's latest film.

The actress spoke passionately,

tears already glistening in her eyes, lamenting how long she'd known him. "Matthew, how can you be into Aubree? She's seven years older

her

than you! You'll get tired on

enough. In a few years, wrinkles will start to show, no matter how well she takes care of herself. Her age

will always be a factor."

"Choose me instead, Matthew. We're the same age, and I truly love you," she said, her eyes sparkling as she made her case.

She had dressed to the nines, clearly

planning this from the get-go.

Instinctively, Aubree felt the urge to leave. Even though she was confident in their love, old

insecurities crept in, making her feel like she didn't belong, like a mouse seuttling back to the shadows, unworthy of the light.

But just as she was about to walk away, Matthew's voice stopped her. It was a stark contrast to the gentle, warm tone he used with her-this time, it was icy.

"Have you finished?" he asked, looking at the woman with a glass of wine in hand.

"You know I have a girlfriend, yet you still decided to confess. Did I do something to lead you on? Otherwise, why would you feel so confident?"

He didn't mention Aubree by name, but his words left the woman flushed with embarrassment. She recoiled, having always seen him as the easygoing, sunny type, someone who was laid-back with his friends. This cold side was unexpected.

Matthew gently set his wine glass down. "Aubree and I are together; it's no secret. If there's an issue, it's yours. Are you really that keen on being the 'other woman'? Didn't your parents teach you about decency?" The woman's eyes welled up with shame, and she fled the scene. Matthew watched her leave, letting out a frustrated sigh. He hoped Aubree hadn't seen any of this; he dreaded the thought of any misunderstandings. Unbeknownst to him, Aubree was right around the corner, taking in every word.