Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - SEVEN

A/N: In this chapter, we explore Henry's remarkable capabilities as a shrewd strategic executive and master manipulator.  Henry's effectiveness in achieving his goals is undeniable.  However, as the story unfolds, we also witness a satisfying wave of regret and realization washing over Henry.

Defying Desire

SEVEN

In a posh townhouse nestled within the city's bustling streets, Henry found himself lost in a sea of thoughts. The sleek and masculine interior of his abode mirrored his refined taste and style. With a glass of whisky in hand, he lounged in a plush chair, his mind consumed by memories of Sage. Regret weighed heavily on him as he replayed their past together. He had made a big mistake by ending their relationship, and now he longed to make things right.

The room was dimly lit, casting shadows across his face as he took a sip of the amber liquid. Thoughts of Sage overwhelmed him, igniting a fire in his heart. He couldn't help but recall the passion they once shared, longing to feel her touch and reconnect with her on a deep level.

Although the board members were impressed by his strategic partnership with the app, it was Sage who held the key to his happiness. The business stuff seemed less important compared to the prospect of having her back in his life.

Lost in his thoughts, Henry grew more determined. He knew pursuing a former lover who had blocked all communication was risky, but it only fueled his desire to win Sage back. It became a challenge, a chance to prove that their love was worth fighting for.

In his mind, he pictured their reunion—a spark of electric chemistry reigniting between them. Every touch and whispered word would carry the weight of their shared history. Henry yearned to apologize for the past, to show Sage how much he regretted his actions and convince her that he had truly changed.

As the whisky burned his throat, matching the fire inside him, Henry realized he had to tread carefully. He couldn't just rush back into Sage's life; he had to find a way to break through her barriers.

The strategic partnership with the app offered him an opportunity to reach out to Sage, to discuss the collaboration and the impact it could have on their lives. Ideas swirled in Henry's mind on how to subtly reconnect, to show Sage that his feelings were still strong.

With determination, he set his glass down and stood up. Walking towards the window, he admired the twinkling city lights. A steely resolve emanated from him as he silently promised himself to make things right. He would find a way to win back Sage's trust and reignite their once-burning flame.

Late into the night, Henry's excitement grew. The strategic partnership had opened a door, and now he had to face the challenges ahead. Every passing moment fueled his determination to execute his plan flawlessly and prove to Sage that their love was worth any risk or sacrifice.

In the solitude of his luxurious townhouse, Henry felt a renewed sense of purpose. The whisky coursing through his veins emboldened him, driving his pursuit of his desires. The calculated move he made during the board meeting went beyond business—it was a way to bring Sage back into his arms, where she truly belonged.

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - SIX

A/N: Some dry humor, surprising revelations, and a deeper look into Henry's manipulative and tactical nature. 

Face Claim Cast:

Auryn Sorenson - Matthias Shoenaerts (A/N: I actually chose him to play the younger brother because he bears a resemblance to Mads)

Defying Desire

SIX

"So you were professionally-zoned," Charles remarks, unable to contain his frustration as he brings up Sage, his father's recent date that he met a week ago when he dropped by their old home.

Kieran's face reddens slightly as he tries to find the right words. "Well... you see, I couldn't just let that app slip through my fingers, and I..."

Vi interrupts with an exasperated sigh, her voice filled with both seriousness and humor. "Da, seriously? You couldn't resist talking business with someone you were interested in? You should have been whispering sweet nothings, not analyzing profit margins!"

Auryn, trying to make sense of the situation, raises an eyebrow and looks at his older brother. "Wait, hold on. Are you telling me you actually started dating someone? And this is how it went down?"

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - FIVE

A/N: Well, I’ve got some ideas, so... why not? Well, here we are with a chapter that delves into the backgrounds of our characters, Kieran and Sage. It's an opportunity for us to get to know them better. Oh, and a quick spoiler alert for those who have read "DARK KNIGHT" - keep an eye out for a familiar moment when you reach that part in the story. Enjoy the chapter! Defying Desire

FIVE

Sage paced back and forth in her living room, her mind consumed with regret. The events of the evening replayed in her thoughts, and she couldn't shake off the feeling that she had made a mistake. She had let fear and uncertainty guide her actions, and now she found herself questioning her choices.

As her mind raced, a flashback took her back to the night she had spent with Kieran. They had shared a delightful evening together, filled with laughter, genuine conversation, and a connection that seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment. But when the night drew to a close, Kieran had made it clear that he wanted to date her, not rush into a physical relationship.

Sage, being the self-doubting person she was, had let her insecurities take hold. She didn't want Kieran to see her vulnerabilities, to witness her true self. And so, with a mix of cowardice and misguided intentions, she had asked Kieran's driver to drop her off in front of a townhouse a few blocks away from her actual home.

In her heart, she knew it was a foolish decision. Why had she pretended that her home was closer than it actually was? Perhaps it was her fear of being seen for who she truly was, her fear of letting someone into her life and revealing her flaws. She hadn't even given Kieran her business card or phone number, only her name.

Now, in the solitude of her home, regret gnawed at her. She realized that she might have missed an opportunity to let someone in, to explore a potential connection with a remarkable man like Kieran. The weight of her decision settled heavily upon her shoulders, and she couldn't help but wonder what could have been if she had been braver, more open to the possibilities.

But then Sage's thoughts took a sharp turn, and she couldn't help but entertain a different perspective. She reminded herself of the similarities between Kieran and some of her previous partners. They had all started off nice and charming, just like Kieran. They had charmed her, made her feel special, and convinced her to let her guard down. But as soon as they had her wrapped around their finger, things had changed.

They had taken advantage of her, using her issues against her and blaming her for their own shortcomings. Sage had endured enough heartache and pain, and she couldn't bear the thought of going through it all over again.

"No," she said defiantly, shaking her head. "I've had my fair share of manipulative men. I won't let Kieran be another one. I refuse to let myself be hurt again."

With newfound conviction, Sage made a promise to herself. She would no longer allow herself to be fooled by superficial charm or fall into the same patterns of toxic relationships. She was stronger now, more aware of her own worth, and she wouldn't settle for anything less than genuine love and respect.

As she walked through her living room, a sense of empowerment washed over her. She realized that she didn't need a man to complete her. She had her own strength, her own dreams, and her own happiness to pursue.  However, now she faced a new predicament: how to avoid Kieran?

---------- 

On Thursday night, Sage walked into her favorite lounge bar, relieved to see that Kieran wasn't there. She had made a mental note of the days when he usually frequented the place, trying her best to avoid any chance encounters. With a friendly smile, she greeted the bartender and ordered her usual drink along with some delectable canapés. It was a small victory, knowing she could enjoy her evening without the presence of the intriguing but potentially complicated Kieran.

Tonight, Sage had no intention of indulging in flirtatious encounters with handsome strangers. She had opted for a more understated yet elegant look, wearing a black maxi dress adorned with subtle gold jewelry. Her attire was tasteful and presentable, but it lacked the sultriness of the outfit she had worn on the day she made her bold move on Kieran. She was determined to enjoy a quiet and uneventful evening, savoring her drink and canapés in peace.

Tonight, she had no plans of flirting with handsome strangers, so she was dressed in a black maxi dress and gold jewelry. It was tasteful and presentable, exuding an air of sophistication rather than sultriness, unlike the outfit she had worn on the day she made her move on Kieran.

Sage made her way to the lounge bar and greeted the bartender, Finn. He flashed her a friendly smile as he prepared her usual drink and canapés.

"So, Sage, how did your date with Kieran go?" Finn asked curiously, his eyes twinkling with intrigue.

Sage sighed, a hint of regret in her voice. "Oh, Finn, I was a coward. I ran away."

Finn raised an eyebrow, genuinely interested. "Why on earth would you do that?"

Sage took a moment to collect her thoughts. "I don't know, Finn. It's complicated. I let my fears and insecurities get the best of me. I didn't want to let someone in, only to get hurt again."

Finn nodded empathetically, understanding the struggle all too well. "Sometimes, self-preservation kicks in, and it's hard to let down those walls. But who knows, Sage? Maybe you'll have another chance with him."

Sage chuckled softly, a tinge of skepticism in her voice. "I highly doubt it. I think I may have missed my chance. Besides, I'm not sure I'm ready to navigate those waters again."

Finn leaned against the bar, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Well, you never know what life has in store for you. Maybe fate will intervene and give you a second shot."

Sage smiled appreciatively at Finn's words. "Maybe, Finn. Maybe." 

Just as Finn finished speaking, his smile grew wide, and he pointed discreetly behind Sage. "Like probably right now?!" 

Sage turned around, her eyes widening in surprise. There, behind her, was Kieran, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. He sits down next to her, not breaking eye contact. 

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - FOUR

A/N: Hello, EVERYONE!!  I have an exciting revelation for those who have been following the stories.  Sage's journey intersects with the world of Ingrid Hawkes, where they exist in the same odd women universe. Not only that, but Sage and Ingrid are close friends, sharing a deep bond. As the plot unfolds, Sage will come to learn about Henry's past connection with Ingrid and the pain he caused her. Henry's character has much to learn and grow from in the upcoming chapters. On another note, we also introduce Kieran Sorensen from DARK KNIGHT, who resides in the same universe. However, at this point in time, Kieran has retired from his government agency life and is now a fascinating Angel-investor.  Face Claim Cast -  Kieran Sorensen - Mads Mikkelsen 

Defying Desire

FOUR

That night, Sage ventured out of her home, ready to banish Henry from her thoughts and find solace in her beloved lounge. This wasn't her first time going alone; the bar had become a sanctuary where she felt safe and understood.

As she entered the lounge, a sense of relief washed over Sage. The familiar surroundings embraced her, shielding her from the outside world. The staff, who had known her so well, greeted her with warm smiles, aware of her desire for solitude.

This is one of the particular lounge held a special place in Sage's heart. It was not only conveniently located, but it also provided a comforting atmosphere. The skilled bartenders knew her drink of choice without her needing to speak, and the carefully prepared canapes satisfied her cravings.

Surrounded by the soothing melodies and enchanting ambiance, Sage allowed herself to unwind. She cherished her own company, finding freedom in her solitude. The lounge walls seemed to whisper encouragement, urging her to let go of the memories that burdened her.

Taking her place in a favorite corner, Sage observed the interactions of fellow patrons. The lounge was a microcosm of stories, with each person seeking solace or connection in their own way. Sage hoped to momentarily divert her attention from her own emotional turmoil by surreptitiously immersing herself in the stories unfolding around her. She became an inadvertent eavesdropper, capturing snippets of conversations that fueled her curiosity and momentarily distracted her from her own thoughts.

And then, in that very moment, her eyes were drawn to him! He sat across the bar, a silver fox in a well-tailored suit, with salt-and-pepper hair that added a touch of distinguished charm to his appearance. His deep-set eyes and chiseled face exuded an irresistible allure. Sage couldn't help but notice the striking similarity between his citrine eyes and her own, a captivating blend of green and brown.

A mischievous thought crossed Sage's mind. After all, she had promised herself to let loose and flirt with a handsome stranger. And who better to capture her attention than the dreamy silver fox she had often glimpsed, sipping his drink alone? It seemed like the perfect opportunity to indulge in a little harmless fun.

As Sage's eyes lingered on the handsome silver fox, she couldn't help but recall the numerous times she had noticed him before. His striking appearance and impeccable taste in drinks had always caught her attention. She had even ventured to try some of his preferred beverages in the past and found them to be delightful.

As Sage's eyes locked onto the captivating silver fox, a surge of courage coursed through her veins. This was the first time she had ever dared to make a move on a stranger, especially someone as alluring as him. Despite her introverted nature, she felt emboldened by the decision she had made earlier in the night.

Seizing the opportunity to make a move, Sage called the bartender over and discreetly instructed him to prepare a drink of her choice for the mysterious silver fox, on her tab. It was a subtle gesture, a way to capture his attention and pique his curiosity. As the bartender nodded with a knowing smile, sharing in her excitement and anticipation. Sage couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement, wondering how this playful act would unfold.

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - THREE

A/N: Hello, everyone! I wanted to give you a heads-up that we have some steamy moments ahead. We'll be diving into the minds of our characters through flashbacks to unravel what the male lead was thinking and explore the dynamics of their past relationship. Additionally, we'll delve into the current journey of our female lead, offering insight into her thoughts and experiences.

You can read the previous chapter at;

Defying Desire - TWO

Defying Desire THREE

Henry sat at his desk, surrounded by a mountain of paperwork, when his eyes landed on a lush green plant on the windowsill. Its vibrant leaves reminded him of Sage, and memories from their first meeting flooded his mind. It was a picturesque garden reception where he first laid eyes on her.

Sage effortlessly stood out in the crowd, her petite frame elevated by the graceful sway of her midi dress. The choice of her attire, unlike the revealing outfits he was accustomed to, emanated an understated allure that captivated Henry's attention. Yet, it was not merely the dress that drew him in, but the way Sage carried herself with innate poise and confidence. Amidst the bustling garden reception, she appeared serene and composed, navigating the event with an elegant grace that belied her petite stature. Every step she took, guided by her heels, seemed to exude a quiet assurance, leaving an indelible impression on Henry's memory. The way she carried herself with a quiet sensuality. Her subtle confidence and graceful movements left an indelible impression, making him yearn to uncover the layers of her enigmatic charm.

Henry remembered how Sage effortlessly engaged in conversations, her warm demeanor and infectious laughter creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie. She would mingle with children and other guests, leaving behind a trail of smiles. But after each interaction, she would retreat to a secluded corner, finding solace in the tranquility and indulging in the delectable offerings from the buffet tables.

It was Sage's enigmatic presence that captivated Henry. She possessed a rare ability to find comfort in solitude, her keen observation and deep understanding of human nature shining through. Their conversations, when they had them, were filled with laughter and sparked by Sage's sharp wit and unique perspectives.

Despite his attempts to move on, Sage remained a lingering thought in Henry's mind. Her deliberate removal of herself from his digital world left him frustrated and puzzled. He couldn't fathom how Sage could be content and thriving without him. The mere idea challenged his ego and ignited a curiosity that refused to subside.

While Henry continued his pursuit of fleeting pleasures and superficial experiences, he couldn't shake the notion of Sage finding fulfillment in her introverted nature. She embraced her creative pursuits, finding solace and inspiration in the beauty of her own company.

As time passed, Henry's frustration grew, and his curiosity intensified. Sage became an enigma, a puzzle he yearned to solve. He questioned whether she missed him, still thought of him, or had found solace in the arms of someone new. The thought of Sage moving on without him, finding her own happiness and fulfillment, left a lingering ache within him.

The stark contrast between their lifestyles became more apparent with each passing day. While Henry chased shallow pleasures, Sage nurtured her inner world, embracing her introverted nature. She flourished in her creative endeavors, reveling in the elegance of her solitude.

In moments of reflection, Henry began to question his own choices and actions. He realized the possibility that he had taken Sage for granted, failing to appreciate the depth and beauty she carried within her. The realization grew stronger, leaving him with a profound sense of loss for something truly extraordinary.

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update. - TWO

A/N: Well another idea sprouted in the depths of my imagination.

You may read the first one at;  Defying Desire - ONE

Defying Desire

TWO

Sage was at home, enjoying a quiet evening of eating and watching movies when her phone suddenly rang. Curiosity piqued, she picked up the call to find her cousin on the other end. A warm smile spread across her face as they exchanged greetings and caught up on each other's lives.

During their conversation, her cousin extended an invitation for a night out with their cousins and friends. They suggested going for a drink to create a fun and carefree atmosphere. Sage hesitated for a moment, her mind flooded with memories of Henry and the unease that lingered after their encounter at the jazz lounge.

With a deep breath, Sage confided in her cousin, sharing her concerns about running into Henry. She explained that she had been actively avoiding him, resorting to online grocery shopping, food delivery, and purchasing clothes and makeup from the comfort of her own home. She had created a safe haven indoors to shield herself from any potential encounters with him.

Her cousin listened attentively, understanding the weight of Sage's apprehension. They assured her that Henry wouldn't be everywhere they went and encouraged her not to let the fear of encountering him hold her back from enjoying her life and reconnecting with loved ones.

"Sage, girl, listen up!" her cousin exclaimed with a mischievous glint in their eyes. "I totally get why you're worried about bumping into Henry, but let me tell you something. Remember how quick-witted and sharp-tongued you used to be? Well, I have no doubt that you can still leave him speechless with your witty comebacks!"

Sage's laughter filled the room as she reminisced about her wit in the past. She had lost some of that fire during her relationship with Henry, but deep down, she knew it was still within her.

"You know what? You're right," Sage replied. "When is it again?"

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update.

A/N: As what the title says. This is a sequel to the ASCENT series.

If you want to read the previous series, they are at;  ASCENT - ONE  ASCENT - TWO

Edit:  You can now read Chapter 2 at;  Defying Desire - TWO

Defying Desire ONE

Sage's friends, Lisa and Emma, sat beside her in the cozy corner of the lounge bar. It had been weeks since Sage had ventured outside, preferring the comfort of her own home and the solace of her thoughts. But tonight was different—a special occasion to celebrate her return and reconnect with her closest companions.

As the jazz band played a soulful tune in the background, Sage raised her glass of artisanal cocktail, savoring its intricate flavors. The delicate glass clinked against Lisa's and Emma's glasses, a toast to their enduring friendship and shared adventures.

With mischievous grins on their faces, Lisa and Emma couldn't resist teasing Sage about her recent travels. They playfully inquired about the souvenirs she had brought back from Tibet and Shanghai, knowing her penchant for meaningful trinkets and unique mementos.

Amidst laughter and banter, the conversation drifted to Sage's remarkable Everest expedition. Lisa and Emma marveled at her bravery and determination, their admiration evident in their eyes. They celebrated her accomplishments, raising their glasses in a toast to her indomitable spirit.

In this refined ambiance, surrounded by cherished friends, Sage felt a sense of belonging and acceptance. The lounge bar became her sanctuary, a place where she embraced her introverted nature while enjoying the company of others. It stood in stark contrast to the vibrant yet superficial nightlife that her ex, Henry, had immersed himself in.

Here, the drinks were crafted with care, the canapés were works of art, and the music resonated with soul. Sage reveled in the atmosphere—a testament to her growth and the choices she made for herself. She had found her own version of joy, one that didn't require sacrificing her authenticity.

As Sage and her friends immersed themselves in laughter and conversation, a sudden interruption disrupted the harmonious atmosphere. A waiter approached their table, carrying a tray with a carefully crafted cocktail. He set the drink in front of Sage, accompanied by a nod and a subtle gesture towards a distant figure.

Sage's gaze followed the waiter's direction, her eyes widening as she spotted Henry sitting at a nearby table, surrounded by his companions. His eyes fixed on Sage. He raised his glass in a playful salute as a greeting, a mischievous glint in his eyes. The room seemed to fade away, and the joy that had filled Sage's heart moments ago dissipated like smoke in the air.

Sage's heart skipped a beat, her thoughts swirling with a mix of emotions. She couldn't help but notice the presence of a few stunning women in Henry's group, exuding confidence and beauty. Among them, one woman in particular captured his attention, oozing an aura of sultriness and allure that stood in stark contrast to Sage's elegance.

Witnessing Henry's focus shift towards the captivating woman stirred a sense of longing and hurt within Sage. It reminded her of what they had shared and the connection they once had. Despite her efforts to move on, the sight of him with another woman ignited a pang of jealousy deep within her.

Intuitively, Sage began to suspect that Henry's actions were deliberately aimed at evoking these feelings. The thought seemed inconceivable, yet the evidence before her eyes suggested otherwise. The mischievous glint in his eyes and the calculated choice of venue left little room for doubt.

Her friends exchanged concerned glances, sensing the sudden shift in Sage's demeanor. They knew the pain she had endured and how this unexpected gesture from Henry could unravel her hard-earned peace. Emma gently reached out, placing a comforting hand on Sage's arm, silently conveying her support.

As her friends observed the unfolding scene, they couldn't help but voice their confusion. "Why here, of all places?" Lisa remarked, her voice tinged with bewilderment.

The question hung in the air, permeating the atmosphere with an unspoken understanding. Sage's perceptive friends shared in her perplexity, sensing that there was more to Henry's actions than met the eye.

Make Him Regret, Chapter 3 - Conclusion

A/N: Chapter 3 is up, this is the conclusion of the story. There might be a continuation/sequel but it will have a different title and would pick up from where this story left off. This chapter has smut, so I do hope you enjoy!  Tag: @milady-hiddleston, @miruwen, @leah-halliwell92  Sorry if I was unable to find the others, tumbler couldn’t find you :( One more thing! You can also find the story in AO3!

EDIT:  If you want to read the previous chapters here they are here; ONE - Social Media Stalker TWO - Dark Eyes

THREE  Conclusion

Vivienne walks to the wooden dock and looked around to find a few people, taking a late afternoon swim. It wasn’t the season where there are many tourists, which explains the almost empty shore.

She hesitated to remove her skirt wrap for a while, as she felt that her bathing suit looked a little skimpy. Earlier, Mildred who claims to be her ‘stylist’, forced her to wear the swimwear. But looking around, most of the female swimmers wore a skimpier swimwear than her. With a bit of hesitation, she jumps into the cool crystal clear waters of Loch Lomond followed by a big splash, and dove underneath, before rising to the surface once more.

She let herself float, and looked at the blue sky and its white clouds. She felt relaxed and contented, no worries crossing her mind, especially painful thoughts about Tom.

She swam back and forth, near the mid part of the lake and back to the dock. When she finally grew tired of swimming, she swam back to the dock and picked up her things, before heading back to her lodge.

Upon reaching her front door, she quickly entered the room and clicked the lock closed. Proceeding to take off her wet swimwear, she stopped and when she turned around, she found an unexpected face inside her room.

“Don’t stop now... I was enjoying it...”Tom said playfully, and this made Vivienne’s brows furrow. How dare he show up here, when he was the cause of all this trouble.

“What are you doing here Tom? how the hell did you get in here?! This is a private lodge!” she demanded an answer.

“I wanted to see you and talk to you...” was his reply.

“Couldn’t this wait until I reach London?!”

“No...”

With a sigh of resignation, Vivienne opens the door, prompting him to get out. “Would you please leave my room, and wait for me in the living room? I need to bathe and change clothes!”

“Go ahead... it’s not as if I haven’t seen the rest of you...” was his cool reply.

Now Vivienne was fuming mad, how dare he turn up here, after everything he had done to her. She rubbed her forehead in frustration. “I can’t do this right now... I don’t want to listen or fight with you. I’m on this vacation to unwind, and you’re ruining it!” she sighed and looked back up at him. “You should go, I still love you Tom, but everything is different now. So... just leave.”

“You’re right,” he slowly sauntered towards her direction. “Everything is different now, but you still love me...” his mouth curved into a grin.

He leaned down and softly kissed her on the lips, whilst his hand cupped her face. 

She shivered at his touch that wracked her body. She used to love the feeling that he gave her. However, things are different now. Despite that, she had never been good at turning down seduction from him, and now that he has approached her again, all of her desire for him felt like it was about to explode any moment now. 

His kisses were intoxicating, and she was awash with the drunken feeling. He stopped kissing her and grabbed her hand, pulling her back into her bedroom. 

She tried to protest once more, jerking her body out of his grip. But her words got caught in her throat, as he grabbed her shoulders and pushed her back against the wall.

(3AM) ODD Women Series - 40 days Ascent (TWO)

A/N: I’ve had this in my draft notebook for a very long time, now I’m publishing it. I hope you enjoy.  If you want to read the first one; here it is: ASCENT (ONE)

40 Days Ascent

TWO

After two weeks of climbing, Sage and her group took a much-needed break. They found a spot to rest and gazed at the cloudy skies above Everest. The sky above the mountain was filled with swirling clouds, creating a mesmerizing sight. It felt peaceful and calm, contrasting with the busy world she had left behind.

As she gazed at the cloudy skies, her mind momentarily drifted from the mountain to thoughts of Henry. It struck her that in the past two weeks of climbing, she hadn't thought much about him. The challenges and intensity of conquering Everest had consumed her every thought and energy.

But now, during a brief break, her mind wandered back to Henry. She couldn't help but wonder what he was up to, who he might be with. It made her a little sad to imagine him moving on so quickly, finding happiness with someone else. After all, Henry had always been handsome and charming.

The idea that he might have found comfort in another person while she was here pushing herself up the mountain stung a little. In the quiet of the mountains, those thoughts seemed bigger, and she felt a touch of jealousy. She was relieved that the poor signal up here prevented her from checking social media and falling into a spiral of sadness.

It gave her a break from the digital world, allowing her to fully focus on the present moment. Without the constant distractions and comparisons of social media, she could concentrate on her personal journey and the challenges ahead.

(3AM) ODD Women Series - 40 days Ascent (ONE)

A/N: This story is inspired by the film 'Edie' and my uncle who has recently ascended the Mount Everest (wooo!). I hope you'll like this one.

Also, it takes around at least 40 days or more to ascend Mount Everest (includes, stops, and short breaks). Cheers to those who got there!.

SYNOPSIS: Sage is a woman, who has given almost everything up for the man she loves, only to be dumped, and discarded at the end. Upon receiving a call to remind her of the climbing expedition to Mount Everest that she had booked a year ago and trained for the past few months, she sets off to Tibet, finally doing something for herself and starts recovering parts of her that were lost.

EDIT: PART 2 IS HERE - ASCENT (TWO)

40 Days Ascent

"Wait... what?" Sage's mouth hung agape, almost dropping her utensils on the table, upon hearing what her beau said.

"I think we should see other people..." Henry repeats, as he stared directly at her.

"Wha... why?? Did I do anything wrong? Have I not done enough? what else do you want Henry?!! I've given you all my Time and affection..." Was her tense response. His cold hard glare tried to deter her from speaking up, but she was done being treated like this.

"I feel like this is not going to work anymore... I'm sorry" he replied. His apology didn't sound like one. "You're just not the woman for me..." he added. "But I would like us to remain friends..."

Sage sat back and stared at him, and then laughed at the sudden and painful realization. How could she not have seen it from the start?! Right from the beginning of their relationship, it was clear who was in control. He had taken advantage of her vulnerability and he used that to constantly groom her to fit his ideal.

Henry looked confused, as to why she was laughing. "Sage?"

However, before he could continue, the tables were quickly overturned.

Sage gave Henry a look, her eyebrows raised and a smirk playing on her lips. "Wow, Henry, you really outdid yourself with that apology. I could practically taste the sincerity in the air." She paused, her words tinged with sarcasm, despite hurting inside. She refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her tears.

"So, I guess I'm just not the right girl for you, huh? It's so devastating! Like, how can I resist being friends with someone who just broke my heart? Such an amazing offer!" Her voice dripped with sarcasm, emphasizing the absurdity of his request.

Without another word, Sage took a deep breath, composed herself, and turned to walk away. Henry called after her, his voice filled with confusion and regret, but she didn't look back. She had made up her mind.