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
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-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
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-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
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 Thirty-Four.“Tell me, what are your future plans together?” Amanesis pressed, leaning in with the tenacity of an investigator digging for answers.“I can’t exactly predict the future,” I replied playfully, “Perhaps something simple—cooking together, leisurely strolls through flower markets, and, of course, impromptu journeys to wine tastings.” “And maybe some historical tours too?” Randall injected with feigned seriousness, his lips quirked into a half-smile. “Just to keep her well-rounded.”“I’m sure it’ll only add to my charm!” I quipped back, feeding off his playful energy.“Honestly, the way you two interact, it warms my heart,” Amanesis exclaimed, her previous strict demeanor disappearing as her protective maternal instincts began to show through. “You both deserve happiness. And Randall, don’t you dare allow anyone else to distract you from what you have here.”Randall’s expression softened slightly, and he inclining his head slightly as a grateful acknowledgment.As l
Chapter Thirty-Three.After what felt like an eternity planning the intricate details of our relationship charade, I departed the terrace with Randall’s chuckle hanging in the warm, fragrant air. The sun stood high in the sky, casting a shimmering glow across the expansive estate, filling the mansion with an air of quiet elegance.“Are you ready for the culinary emporium the maids are about to unleash?” Randall mused as I led the way back inside. The sound of commotion grew louder as we neared the kitchen—the cheerful chatter of servants echoing through the halls, punctuated by the clatter of pots and pans.“Let’s hope they’ve stocked up on enough comfort food to win over your mother,” I replied, biting back laughter. “And I still need to figure out what to do with my hair. Got anything inspiring on you?”“Can’t help you with that,” he said with a feigned look of innocence before a more genuine smile crept in. “But you’ll look wonderful in anything. Just be yourself.”As I entered my
Chapter Thirty-Two.Sitting at the terrace of Randall's grand mansion, I watched the sun descend over the expansive estate, the golden rays glistening off the carefully trimmed maze garden that borders the property. I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me as I took in the view. But my peace was abruptly shattered by the sound of Randall’s phone ringing, followed by him snapping it up with an incredulous expression on his face.Bringing the cup of coffee to my lips, I looked at Randall waiting for him to pick up the phone.“Bencio?” Randall’s voice was laced with calmness and a hint of confusion.I leaned back in my chair, my curiosity piqued as I caught snippets of the conversation floating towards me through the warm, evening air. “Please don’t kill me,” Bencio’s voice echoed, making it hard for me to suppress a laugh. I stifled the chuckle, maintaining my composure as I watched Randall's expression turn alarmingly serious. “What do you mean my mother is coming over?” There was
Chapter Thirty-One.The sun shone gloriously over the sprawling garden of a mansion that had seen better days; its once-vibrant flowers were wilting slightly under the unrelenting afternoon heat. Yet, at least one thing still radiated with energy and color: Amanesis. She buzzed around the estate with the enthusiasm of a hummingbird, her vibrant dress swishing as she made her way to the office where Bencio was stationed.“Bencio, darling!” she called out with the flair of a theatrical heroine, throwing open the door without knocking. The assistant looked up, startled, as if summoned from some far, distant realm of paperwork and duty. “You will never believe the tragedy that has befallen me!”“Uh, good afternoon, Madam,” Bencio began, sliding his glasses up his nose as he attempted to shift his thoughts from spreadsheets to the whirlwind of drama that was Amanesis. “What seems to be the problem?”“Sit down, dear! You’re going to want to hear this,” she urged, waving her hand as if becko
Chapter Thirty.As our lips met, time seemed to come to a standstill, the world around us fading softly into a blur. The initial shock that coursed through my body melted away, replaced by a warm, comforting sensation enveloping us both like a soft blanket draped in tenderness. It wasn’t merely a kiss; it was a silent acknowledgment of the journey we were embarking on together, a beautiful testament to the intertwining of our lives in the most profound of ways.When we finally pulled away, breathless and a little awestruck, I saw a flicker of mischief dancing in Randall's deep blue eyes. "Did that meet your expectations?" he teased, his voice low and warm, sending delightful shivers racing down my spine.I couldn't help but chuckle, a delightful concoction of nerves and joy bubbling up inside me. "I suppose it will do for now," I said, my own teasing tone emerging, echoing his playful spirit. Somehow, the tension that had been momentarily knotted in my stomach loosened, replaced by an
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