I heard him sigh, his exasperation palpable in the air. "Is this what you really want?" he asked, his voice tinged with a mix of concern and disbelief. But his question only fueled the fire that burned within me, igniting a strange smile on my lips. I couldn't help but let out a laugh, a laugh that held both astonishment and determination. It was a laugh that threatened to propel me out of my seat and onto a path of no return.Is this what I really want? Ha! No, never! This is not enough! The vanilla revenge he spoke of, the mere satisfaction of winning a petty competition, held no allure for me. It was far too shallow, too insignificant to quench the thirst for retribution that consumed me.He had always been perceptive, a man with a sharp eye. He must have glimpsed the fragments of my plan, sensed the depth of my intentions. But I was unwilling to reveal everything just yet, to let him in on the true extent of my desires. Instead, I replied with a firmness that belied the seething a
Chapter Sixteen.Staying up in room for the whole day, I didn’t realize it was already evening until I heard a know coming behind my door.Knock.Knock.“Young miss, the master have arrived and requested your presence. And, dinner will be serve in a few minutes.” The servant announced in an unhurried tone.I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. We don’t typically eat dinner together, or should I say I wasn’t included. I could only join them if the Chairman has important things to discuss or information that needs attention. Typically, it was always about reprimanding and warning me.Just great. Another humiliation episode for the whole house to enjoy.I sighed and reluctantly got up from my comfortable spot on the bed. It had been one of those days when I just wanted to retreat into the solace of my room, away from the prying eyes and constant scrutiny of the household. But now, it seemed like my solitude was about to be shattered by yet another dinner where I would be the center of attent
Chapter Seventeen.My eyes were locked on him, not backing down. The room felt heavy with tension as we stood face to face, the air crackling with unspoken words. I could see the disappointment in my father's eyes, his once vibrant gaze now clouded with a mixture of anger and frustration. But I refused to let it deter me. I had grown tired of living in his shadow, constantly striving for his approval, only to be met with perpetual disappointment.Looking at him now was just a bare minimum of my rudeness, a silent rebellion against the expectations he had placed upon me. In his eyes, I am always the one at fault.For years, I had tried to be the daughter he wanted me to be - obedient, successful, and dutiful. I had studied tirelessly, excelled in every subject, and achieved more than most could ever dream of. But it was never enough. No matter how high I climbed, he always found fault in my accomplishments. He had an unyielding vision for my life, one that I could never quite live up t
Chapter Eighteen.“Sister, aren’t you going to come with us and shop?” I could sense some venom in her voice.Her eyes formed a crescent moon while she smiled at me sweetly. It was too sweet for my liking.Looking at her eyes, I could only see mischief and wicked intentions.But even before I could reply and reject her, a booming voice echoed in the dining room."You should go." The chairman said in a monotone voice as he wiped his mouth with a napkin.My head turned sharply in his direction. Why does he always make the decision for me!? I could help but roll my eyes in irritation.As I glared at the chairman, frustration bubbled within me. It was always the same; he acted like he knew what was best for me without even bothering to ask. I was tired of being treated like a puppet in his hands, forced to dance to his tune. It wasn't fair that he controlled every aspect of my life, leaving me with no say in my own decisions.But if it is my sister, he would always ask her what she wants
We reached downtown not long after leaving, and what unfolded before us were charming boutiques and stores, each exuding its own unique aesthetic. Once upon a time, I relished coming here, shopping without a care in the world, often accompanied by my mother during my carefree childhood. But that allure has faded now. In my current jobless state, searching for employment, splurging on such indulgences felt like an irresponsible luxury.As we arrived at the heart of the city, a sudden impulse urged me to halt the car. Stepping out, I made a beeline for Jammin Jewellery, renowned as the finest jewelry store in Calderon. They showcased the latest trends, every piece a masterpiece crafted by top designers from across the globe—exquisite and with a price tag that only those immensely wealthy could comfortably bear.The salesgirls, discerning potential customers from our attire and demeanor, smiled and approached us with eager enthusiasm, their well-honed instincts at work.Suppressing my em
Chapter Twenty.Agatha's eye went on fire hearing what I said. She have must not expected me to say thatI flashed an innocent smile at her, tilting my head and pouting, acting like a wounded little sister.Agatha sighed, concealing her anger.I paid her no mind and continued to search for the perfect piece of jewelry. Soon, she chose a set of exquisite diamond pieces. The quality and design were impeccable."What do you think? Do you approve?" I asked.The shop manager chimed in with an approving smile, "You certainly have impeccable taste. There are only two sets of this jewelry in the world. One belongs to Queen Alexandra, and this is the other."Upon hearing this, Agatha's anger seemed to dissipate. Her eyes gleamed with desire as she held onto the diamonds, not wanting to let go.Surprise rang through the air. "Agatha, Allysa, what brings you girls here?" a voice exclaimed."Mom," Agatha greeted her mother warmly, embracing her, and the sight seemed to delight Belladonna immensel
Chapter Twenty-One.Everyone inside the establishment went silent for a moment. It was like a silent indication that Belladonna was biased and mistreating his step-daughter. Belladonna's face turned all red with anger, it was like a silent slap in her face.I could help but chuckle a little inside."But…um…" I lightly bit my lower lip, showing indecisiveness, and threw a fearful glance at Belladonna. If I could only roll my eyes at this moment but I restrained myself, it would ruin my performance.I could help but sigh inwardly at how unfortunate I am to be stuck in this dog-blood drama.Everyone looked at me with pity, and a look of disapproval and scorn was directed to Belladonna. They must be thinking how a poor girl I am that can't even express myself without my step-mother's consent.Belladonna was outraged to the point she was blushing red and I could see the visible steam coming out of her ears. She glared at me, if glare could kill I would be long dead already. I could even in
Chapter Twenty-Two.The moment I walked out of the store, I maintained a depressed look as I walked several steps away. Looking around like a lost child, I could see the car that was supposed to be parked outside. Neither Belladonna nor Agatha was in sight. I could only chuckle inwardly as if I had won a lottery. Looking at the side mirror of the near car, I could see the madam's eyes on me, watching my moves and expressions. Looking at the pitiful me staring at the void.I should really apply for an actress in the future.After staying for a few seconds, I sighed as if dejected but still smiled as if it was a common occurrence. I walked away from the establishment with a slight smirk on my face.How did I guess that Belladonna would leave me here? It was simple; I already knew her inside out after living with her for almost ten years. Just like they say, the one who will know you more than yourself would always be your hater and archenemies. They know you more than your number one fa
As our lips met, I felt time slow, the world around us fading into the background. The initial shock dissolved, replaced by a comforting warmth that enveloped us both. It wasn’t just a kiss; it was a silent acknowledgment of the journey we were embarking on together, two lives intertwining in the most profound of ways.When we finally pulled away, breathless, I saw a flicker of mischief dancing in Randall's eyes. "Did that meet your expectations?" he teased, his voice low.I couldn't help but chuckle, a mixture of nerves and joy bubbling inside me. "I suppose it will do for now," I replied, my own teasing tone emerging. Somehow, the tension that had momentarily knotted in my stomach loosened, replaced with an exhilarating thrill.Clara stepped forward, a small bouquet of seasonal flowers in her hands. "Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Valentinus," she said, her eyes sparkling with delight. "The evening is still young, and the celebration awaits."The moment felt surreal, as if I had stepp
Chapter Twenty-NineThe helicopter sliced through the sky, the setting sun a fiery explosion of orange and yellow on the horizon. Beneath us, Amadeus unfolded like a vibrant tapestry. Lush green parks dotted with vibrant flower beds gave way to cobbled streets lined with quaint buildings in pastel hues. The majestic Amadeus River, a serpent of silver, snaked through the heart of the city, its surface reflecting the dying light of the day.I'd been to Amadeus before, but those visits were a blur of neon lights, throbbing nightclubs, and the relentless energy of a city that never seemed to sleep. This was a completely different Amadeus – bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, peaceful and serene. A city that held its breath, waiting for the cloak of night to fall.It didn't take long for the helicopter to descend on a neatly manicured helipad nestled amidst a sprawling estate. The manicured lawns were a vibrant emerald green, dotted with vibrant flowerbeds that burst with color –
Chapter Twenty-Eight.Bencio, on the other side of the call, was confused and suddenly depressed. He had just rescheduled his boss's appointments for half a day, a task that took so much time and energy it felt like he was dying.He was dying from contacting others to inform them of the new schedule, and now his boss was telling him to reschedule again, this time due to his sudden marriage! And it wasn't just for a day – it was a one-week delay!But who was he to deny his boss's wedding and honeymoon? He still didn't want to get kicked out of the company. He still needed money to survive in this world run by capitalism."Ah... what an unfortunate soul I am," Bencio silently pitied himself. All he could do was swallow the lump in his throat and pretend.He didn't even have the energy to think about who his boss was marrying or who would marry his boss.He didn't care and didn't dare to care. He would not risk his neck for a momentary curiosity."Cancel all my meetings for a week, at mo
Chapter Twenty-Seven.Randall sat there, unblinking, as if someone had hit him with a truck. Allysa's words hung in the air: "Let's get married today." It wasn't what he had expected from their lunch date, not by a long shot. He didn't even know what to say to her sudden proposal, or more accurately, her veiled threat.Her audacity was breathtaking, almost admirable in its brazenness. He saw the steely glint in her eyes, a challenge she dared him to accept.A chuckle escaped his lips. The woman he was trying to win over was proposing to him? Wasn't it supposed to be the other way around? He shook his head in amusement.He had been right all along. This woman was too interesting. She wasn't the first woman to propose to him, but she was definitely the first to boldly try to threaten him into it.He rested his chin on his palm, his gaze unwavering as he studied Allysa. She didn't shy away from his intense scrutiny. Her sweet smile widened even further, challenging him to respond.Should
Chapter Twenty-Six. Allysa’s POV The interaction between Leo and Nero was palpable, and I couldn't help but find their dynamic amusing. It was like an older brother trying to be tolerant with his mischievous younger brother, urging him to behave. Of course, Leo as the older brother. Randall seemed to sense it too, his eyebrow raising slightly as he observed the silent interaction. As Leo placed the plates of sushi in front of us, Nero leisurely came over as if he wasn’t supposed to be serving other tables and couldn't resist a mischievous grin. "Well, well, look who's here. Did the heaven’s gate opened and finally took pity on us mortals, for them to send their best angels and beauty?” he intrude with a silly face as if he was very shock to see us, as if he could just believe what miracle he was seeing. I look at him flustered, flabbergasted, astonished and many redundant word just to describe my reaction. Did Nero just simply complemented and called Randall an angel and beauty
Allysa’s POV. “What do you want to eat?” Randall asked as he paused beside the bench. Before I could answer him, he led me to sit and placed the paper bags beside me. “Let’s apply some ointment on your face first,” he said, opening one of the paper bags and taking out a bottle of cream. The scent of lavender wafted through the air as he unscrewed the cap, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort in his presence. Randall's fingers delicately traced the contours of my swollen cheek as he applied the ointment. His touch was gentle, his movements careful. As he worked, the silence between us was filled with the sounds of the district: distant traffic, the murmur of people passing by, and the rustle of leaves in a nearby tree. “I never wanted you to get hurt,” he said softly, his eyes locked onto mine. There was a sincerity in his gaze that melted away the coldness I had sensed in him before. I stared at him for a while, his deep raven-black eyes looking at me deeply as if tryin
Chapter Twenty-Four.Allysa's POV"So, where are you now?" Randall's voice echoed through the phone, catching me off guard. I glanced around, searching for any sign that might reveal my current location. It didn't take long for my eyes to lock onto a weather-worn sign that read 'Conjouer.'"I'm at the front of Conjouer," I replied, my fingers deftly rifling through the contents of my handbag in search of something elusive.“Stay there; I’ll be coming,” Randall ordered in a soft, reassuring tone. I paused, my left eyebrow arching inquisitively as I processed his words. Did this man order me to stay? And why would he be coming here?Raising my eyebrow and crossing my arms, I asked him, “What did you just say?”I heard him chuckle lightly. “Let’s have lunch together,” he said, and I could hear some noise in the other line.Now, it was my turn to chuckle. “You must know, I don’t have money, and I’m currently poor. I cannot treat you,” I said with a voice filled with teasing.I heard him l
Chapter Twenty-Three.Truthfully, Randall was indeed busy. He was currently in the middle of a meeting. It was always been a rule and custom in conference room that everybody had to set their phones to silent mode as no personal calls could be taken during this time.The conference room was in air-conditioned but it wasn’t exaggerating to say that everyone was sweating like they were being grilled in the hot dessert. The already cold conference room was even more bone chilling.Adamson, who presenting and reporting can’t help but shiver in silence as deep profound black eyes were staring at him. Looking as if he made just one mistake, the abyss will swallow him hole leaving no bones behind.As Adamson presented the report, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. The weight of Randall's stare made the room feel even colder, and the collective fear was almost suffocating. It wasn’t just Adamson who was feeling that way. Everyone felt the same, careful not to make a mistake in front of t
Chapter Twenty-Two.The moment I walked out of the store, I maintained a depressed look as I walked several steps away. Looking around like a lost child, I could see the car that was supposed to be parked outside. Neither Belladonna nor Agatha was in sight. I could only chuckle inwardly as if I had won a lottery. Looking at the side mirror of the near car, I could see the madam's eyes on me, watching my moves and expressions. Looking at the pitiful me staring at the void.I should really apply for an actress in the future.After staying for a few seconds, I sighed as if dejected but still smiled as if it was a common occurrence. I walked away from the establishment with a slight smirk on my face.How did I guess that Belladonna would leave me here? It was simple; I already knew her inside out after living with her for almost ten years. Just like they say, the one who will know you more than yourself would always be your hater and archenemies. They know you more than your number one fa