As soon as we got to his mansion, I immediately went to bed. It is rather large. The mansion, with its ornate chandeliers and antique pieces. The flooring made of marble exuded opulence. It included a television and large couches.
And he had a dog!
Micha was his name, and he is a sweetheart. He's actually lying next to me at the moment. I could sleep for three more hours, but it was eight in the morning.
Adagio hasn't spoken anything since we arrived. Although we were meant to share a room, I was too afraid that something might go wrong. What if he made me lie down with him?
I'm craving food. I'd best head over to eat. I just pulled my hair back into a bun, gave myself a facial wash, and brushed my teeth before going downstairs. Micha came up on my heels.
A few maids greeted me, and I politely answered. It appears that breakfast has been prepared. They made pancakes.
I ate silently until I heard a blonde girl come down the stairs. I was slightly perplexed until I realized it was one of his mistresses. After our marriage, not even a day has gone by since he already started cheating. We are merely strangers, so it's not like we made a lifelong commitment to one another. Rather, we lied about our relationship at the altar.
As soon as she saw me, she rolled her eyes. Excuse me. That's a little rude.
"Are you his wife?" She inquired, It's clear that she already knows the answer. "I believe it's none of your concern" was what I said. I smirked in satisfaction when I heard her offended scoff."Liz, what are you doing here?" I heard him.
I looked up to see him dressed neatly in his suit. "I ran into your snotty wife here," she said, folding her arms and gazing at me. I was taken aback. What exactly did I do?"Liz, leave" He dismissed her as if he hadn't fucked her the night before.
She pouted in an effort to be cute, but it didn't work. "But-" "Leave" He cut her off. He was more assertive this time. She sealed her mouth shut and walked out of the mansion."Good morning," I said, smiling.
He gave me a stern look and hummed in response. True, it was awkward, but I've been in far worse situations. He possesses an odd and suspicious aura. It's quite frightening.Jessica and Candis invited me to join them for lunch. I figured it was a good idea because I'd be at home all day anyway. However, I need to talk to Adagio. My gut told me that if I didn't, I could end up in trouble, so I should ask. Ask? No way... It's more like informing him.
I believe Liz girl pushed his buttons; what if I become a victim of his anger? I had second thoughts and began to doubt myself. Is it worthwhile? I was hesitating. I looked at him, debating whether or not to tell him.
"What is it?" He asked me unexpectedly.
He must have sensed my desire to talk to him. "uh... I'm going out for lunch with Jessica and Candis," I said, pressing my lips together in a thin line as I waited for his response."You're not going" He really popped my hope bubble.
By the way, he looked at me, I thought he was fine with it. "What? Why?" In shock at his sudden revelation, I asked. "I don't have to explain myself," he glared at me, clearly annoyed. "You can't do that. I'm all alone here," I said quietly. I was obviously unhappy. "You have Micha,"He looked at the puppy before turning to face me.
"Adagio...I have him, but-'' "Then stop complaining" He cut me off, which irritated me. He is not understanding, and there is no harm in letting me go out for lunch."He'll be a better company for you because you're no different than him," I said, raising my voice slightly.
I just called him a dog. I've already lost the ability to decide on my partner; now I have to give up the ability to go out with my friends.I'm surprised by my sudden outburst. Maybe it was because I suppressed my emotions so much that it all came rushing out.
Regret consumed me the moment I said it.
"Watch your attitude with me," he hissed at me.I paused briefly before speaking again, this time more softly,
"Then tell me why I am not allowed," I said as I looked at him. He gave me an irritated look. He sighed as he looked at his watch. "It's dangerous out there. Considering that you're my responsibility, I have to keep you safe, or else I don't mind if you die," he stated rudely."Fine," I said.
I suppose I can't argue with him, but rather show him. I'm leaving without his permission. "Have a good day," I forced a smile, hoping that whatever was bothering us would go away and we could be civil until he found out I had snuck out.He went to his office.
It was around 11 a.m., and I thought it would be a good time to draw. I brought my art supplies, which mainly consisted of a pencil and an eraser.
I've always enjoyed drawing because it allowed me to escape this world for a while until I felt ready to face it again. I am also very interested in painting and writing.
I enjoy writing more than anything else because no one understands me in this world, and it's better to bleed on a piece of paper and not get judged.
I drew Little Micha after taking a picture of him.
Because I am very particular about details, it took me a little over three hours to complete only half of his face.
I looked at the clock and realized it was almost one thirty, and I totally forgot about the lunch with Candis and Jessica. I exclaimed and dashed to my bedroom to change. Micha was surprised by my sudden action, and he trailed behind me, barking.
"It's nothing, baby," I said as I ran.I wore a sundress that ended just above my knees and white shoes because I don't wear heels very often. I grabbed my purse and went down the stairs. It was nearly two o'clock in the afternoon. I walked outside the mansion and was greeted--or rather, stopped--by the guards.
"Mrs. Amato, master ordered us to not let you anywhere" He went on to say.
Overly loyal people can be extremely inconvenient.And Adagio anticipated my escape. He's a smart man.
"See, you really have to understand me here. I spent half of my day alone. I could really use a lunch with my friends," I reasoned, and to be honest, I didn't have much hope. You may wonder why, because he is not going to spare his life for me."I understand, Madam, but you must understand me. Master has an extremely hot temper and dislikes mistakes," he explained.
And I felt sorry for him because he had to put up with all of his nonsense.In any case, he signed up for this job.
"I'll stay only if you promise to play with me." I need to make him understand how lonely I am. "I am afraid he wouldn't like that," he said. "Then let me go," I snapped back. "I promise you, I'll be back before he gets home," I said, pausing to hear his response."There are CCTV cameras here, Madam," he said, and I swear to God, I have never looked dumber. I felt like an idiot.
I believe I have no choice but to run away. I'll tell you what, it's going to be difficult because this mansion is heavily guarded, and the main issue is that the main gate is literally so far away from the mansion that the chances of me running through it without getting caught are extremely low.
I believe I am capable because I was an athlete in high school. Sprinter, long jumper, and triple jumper. I'm quite proud of myself, but I'm sure these men are stronger and faster than me. Of course, this is obvious.
"All right... Is that Adagio?" I asked, pretending to see Adagio pull up in the drive-through.
He immediately turned around to look behind him. I took advantage of the opportunity to get out of his sight. I ran and was glad I wore my shoes.My heart is racing not because I'm out of breath, but because I'm scared and panicked.
"Madam!" I could hear him yell. "You can't leave," he said, and as I ran, I noticed three guards on my back.I concentrated and accelerated my pace. Aster, you can do it! My anxiety increased as their footsteps became more audible to my ears.
"Charles, lock the gates," the guard yelled.Oh, no.
Now that the gates have been locked, it's time to put my parkour skills to use. I'm afraid I'm not very good at it, and the inconvenience of this dress isn't helping matters.
As I approached the gate, I noticed the wall, which was small enough for me to hover over. I threw my purse over the wall to the opposite side of the mansion.
I jumped and my hands landed on the slab; I tightened my grip as I pushed myself up. I lifted my leg to throw to the other side. I jumped once my entire body was on top of the wall.
I knew you could do it, girl.
I made it out of the mansion safely. I had no idea it could be so simple. I dusted myself and searched for my purse. I guess my throws aren't that bad.
"Looking for this," I flinched at the abrupt voice, and I knew who it belonged to right away.
My back faced him, and I felt myself shake in fear. I couldn't bring myself to face him."Turn around," he demanded, his voice filled with rage.
I pursed my lips and kept my eyes wide open. That was the end of everything for me. His timing was terrible."I don't like to repeat myself," he stated emphatically.
I smiled sheepishly as I slowly turned to face him."Oh, you found my purse," I exclaimed, trying to change the subject, but I knew I was only making matters worse.
None of this would have happened if he had let me out. See, I am in trouble because of him, and I blame his guard.Dummy.
"What are you doing?" His face was stiff and cold as he spoke.
"uh..Looking for my purse?" I expressed my uncertainty. I feel humiliated. In fear, I could feel my legs trembling.He sighed and paced towards me, frowning.
"I'm not playing. When I say something, you do it," he gritted his teeth. "I..I. Nothing is wrong with me going out!" I exploded.He sighed angrily once more.
"Go back in," he said, and I stood there in disbelief. I did it all just to get back inside. "Adagio..." I murmured. "Go. Back in," he grumbled. My eyes started to well up. I pouted and bit my lower lip to keep myself from crying. When I looked at him, his eyes softened for a brief moment."Oka-y" My voice shook.
I walked over to the gate I hadn't used on my way out. I walked through, glaring at the guard who, I believe, had snitched on me to Adagio.'I hate you,' I said, and he smiled slightly. I am completely heartbroken. Just wait and see because I'm going to make him play 'tea party' with me.
I'm such a kid. That's how I used to be, and how I still am. Except for the week before my wedding, I don't get depressed. I get sad, but I recover much faster than most people.
I am overjoyed and can't help but smile in the midst of chaos. I may be upset right now, but I'm sure in an hour I'll be back to my bubbly weird self.
I agree that I am childish, but that is a good thing because it is preferable than to be mature and depressed. I prefer the words childish and happy. I entered the mansion. I grabbed my phone and texted my friends that I couldn't make it.
I tossed my purse on the couch and sat at the table. I'm starving. This is the most physically active I've been in two months. Adagio approached me with a stern expression on his face. He had taken off his coat. He had on a white shirt that was rolled up to his elbow.
He has a great physique. When he raised his brow in perplexity, I averted my gaze from him. Embarrassing. "there's an event to attend tomorrow afternoon," he stated as he sat down at the dining table.
"I guess I'm not going," I murmured.If I am not permitted to go out with my friends, I will not go anywhere at all. Isn't that what he really wants? Now that I am his 'responsibility,' he has accountability for keeping me 'safe.'
I'd rather stay at home and avoid being killed if that's what he believes to happen. I looked at him, and he didn't seem pleased with my response. But he's always grumpy, so who knows?
The maids soon brought us our lunch, and the sight of the pasta bolognese, my mouth water. I dug in as soon as I got my hands on it. When I heard his sigh, I looked up to see him massaging his temples.
"What's wrong?" With my mouth full, I asked him.
"You're coming with me to that event," he said calmly. "Isn't it a little dangerous out there for me?" I bat my eyes, and his irritation grew. "You're coming with me, so you're fine," he said, taking a bite of his meal.I retained my eyes on him. He raised his brows, indicating that it tasted good. Unknowingly, a smile played across my face. I continued to eat with a smile on my face.
"I'll go" I gave in. I wanted to stretch it a little further, but he appeared tired.That poor man. I suppose it's too much work. I'm relieved that I at least enjoy silent company for lunch. Something is better than nothing.
The following day, Micha was curled up next to me in my room as I read a romance novel. Adagio and I have not seen each other since this morning.I was content and at ease even though I had to do something I did not want to. I never had depression or obsessive worry about things. I let it go and accept it, whether I like it or not. What else can we do? Waste our happy lives? That's a no.A knock on the door startled me. Micha was also startled by the sudden noise and let out a bark. "Come in," I said, closing my book. One of the maids entered the room, holding a box.My curiosity piqued, and I asked her, "What's that, Mary?" Mary let out a soft laugh. I approached her, and she handed me the box, saying, "Master asked me to give it to you."Unknowingly, a smile appeared on my face. "Thank you, Mary," I said with a smile. "Master said he'll be home at 1 p.m. to pick you up," she said, as my head snapped back into place. I had completely forgotten about it.My gaze was drawn
Aster~I dashed down the stairs, tying my hair into a bun. I rushed over to greet my in-laws. I was not made aware of their visits. I walked into the living room to hear laughter.I wore a red top and a knee-length skirt. It's decent enough to make me seem like I've showered. "Hello everyone," I smiled as I waved to everyone. Adagio's brothers, as well as Adagio and his parents, were all present."Oh, Aster, come here," Mrs. Amato said, patting the empty seat beside her.I awkwardly approached her. I have known them since I could remember but they all suddenly appear to be strangers. They all seem to be different. Everything appeared to be new to me. I looked around at everyone and considered why I was feeling this way.Is it because they have something to do with my family that they had to force me into this marriage and not feel bad about it? What is the true reason for our marriage? It's because of the contract, but what exactly is in it?One thought led to another, filling my min
Aster~I'm currently on a private jet and have no idea what to do. I've already finished watching two or three movies. We are apparently going on a honeymoon to Bora Bora, which is miles away and takes about 28 hours to get there from Paris.This is tiring, man. Adagio is sitting beside me, but this wall separates us for privacy reasons. This is already exhausting; who wants to deal with that man?He has been focused on his work for hours and does not appear to be taking a break. So how do I know? I could hear the clicking of his laptop, and it went on for hours. I'm done worrying about the contract, the heir, the lies, and everything. As I said before, I cannot worry about things excessively or for an extended period of time. Maybe I will later when I have to face it again, but for now, I am as bubbly as ever before.I'm bored and feeling talkative, so I might as well gather my courage and talk to this guy. To be honest, I get nervous every time I stand in front of a man, with the ex
Aster~The sun shone on my face, and I groaned because it disturbed my sleep. I want to sleep some more; this bed is so comfortable that I don't want to get up. I opened my eyes to see a blurry image of... Adagio?I snapped my head up to see my hands and legs on him, as well as his hands around my waist. Adagio had his eyes on me, watching as I became panicked and confused."What are you doing in my bed?" I inquired as I got away from his grip."The question is, what are you doing in my bed?" he asked in his morning voice.My eyes widened as I looked around to find myself on his bed. I gasped and stood up.Then I realized I had walked into his bed last night because I couldn't sleep on that rock-hard bed."Sorry," I mumbled, turning red, and ran into the bathroom before he could respond.So that's how my day began. We had breakfast together, and nothing happened except that we stuffed ourselves with delicious food. We went shopping more because I wanted to. He didn't like the plan and
Adagio~I have not been in my right mind since the marriage. I've been out of control, unstable, and insane. However, I can't let my weaknesses spread all over the place.I get ahold of it and deal with shit like I have for years, and now there's Aster. Her problematic a** never shuts down, and dealing with her is becoming increasingly annoying.Although I do not like her, there is something about her that strangely rules me, which I despise.Getting the work done isn't easy. Mother and father have been urging me to do it with Aster, but overcoming her stubborn nature is too difficult. Not that I can't control or handle her, but given her lack of experience, I'm taking it slowly.There is no way out for either her or me; we are stuck. All of this is totally ridiculous to me; Father and his desires are out of reach. It's unfortunate that I have no choice but to give in.These days, all I think about is my father, Aster, and the contract; I live to work, and having barriers over which I
Aster~I was preparing to head downstairs, tying my hair in a ponytail. I became pretty hungry. I've been camping in my room since the morning, and I've only had coffee and chips.Suddenly, my gaze was pulled to the shattered glass outside Adagio's room. My curiosity began to grow, but I was hesitant to investigate because I was never permitted into his office or room.After pondering whether or not to enter, I decided to have a quick peek at it. As I got closer to his room, my heart rate changed. I was eager, but there was also some anxiety. I was hit with a strong alcohol smell, making my nose scrunch bitterly. I pushed the slightly opened door, letting the lights pass through into the dark room. My eyes widened, and I clasped my mouth to cover my gasp. I pushed the door wide open to see everything wrecked and shattered on the floor. The room was messy, which was very unlike him. I carefully stepped in, moved around, and turned on the lights. I let out a quiet gasp when I saw Adagi
Aster~I can't stand him! How difficult can it be, to be honest? I walked to the kitchen to prepare dinner. I am preparing dinner, and he is eating it whether or not he enjoys it.As thoughts raced through my mind, I realized that my anger washed away before I knew it, but only when it came to Adagio. I made up my mind to ask him about his troubles because I know I can't rest without being a part of the solutions to his problems. I realize that I can't make things okay; perhaps I could at least try to make it feel like it is. Dinner was ready, and I was on my way to call Adagio from his study. Contract or not, since the day I was married to him, I have always wanted to give all the love and care that a wife has to offer, even when it meant I would receive nothing but coldness and pain. Though I break out in anger, I find it difficult to give up on him. Ever since I started trying to find him, I have been on the edge of losing myself to him. I do not know when it will be until I fall
Adagio~I haven't finished my work yet, and it is already midnight. It has been stressing me out more than ever because of the home and work chaos. It's as though I sleep with Aster every night since she won't sleep without me.Not that I care, but it's annoying to go home and see that face of hers the moment I enter. She is always around, taking care of me, which I clearly didn't ask for. I got up to leave. I took my bag and coat, and suddenly I heard a knock. I wondered who it would be at this hour. Mostly everyone has left. A part of me assumed it was Aster, but then, to my surprise, the door opened, revealing my brother. What on earth is he doing here? "What do you want?" I asked. He blinked in disappointment. I do not wish to greet him or see his face right now. "Have you slept with Aster?" He asked with a shaky breath, his eyes so much more than fear. "You came all the way to my office to ask that?" I asked him uninterestingly and in shock due to his stupidity. "Did you?" He
He was never going to change, and honestly, why should I even want him to? It’s not as if I love him or anything. It’s the empathy I feel for him that stirs up emotions I’ve never experienced before. I need to stop what I’m doing—I can’t keep this up. The harder I try to pull him out of this nightmare, the more I find myself dreaming of being close to him, and it’s tormenting me. My sobs echoed within the four walls. It’s only been four months since the wedding, since moving in, and yet I’ve made more cherished memories in this room than I ever have with anyone else in this entire mansion. I’ve learned that this world has the power to break even the happiest soul in the cruelest of ways. But I refuse to be defeated. I want to be the girl who stands up and fights back. No more tears. With unwavering determination, I wiped my eyes and rose, resolved not to let anything shatter me. The next day, my eyes were swollen even though I had only cried for a few minu
It had been three days since I visited Matt, yet the questions still lingered, unanswered. That strange feeling from our last meeting hadn’t faded, and no matter what I did, my mind kept drifting back to the mystery I couldn’t let go of. Even with these thoughts weighing on me, I managed to make some progress in launching my business. It wasn’t easy, but having this distraction kept me grounded, pushing me to take small but steady steps toward turning my dream into a reality. I've just come home from my evening run, and I'm about to head out to scout a new location for my business. I have an appointment with my broker at 5 p.m., and it’s already 4:15 p.m. Just enough time to shower and get ready—perfect timing.As I stepped into the house, I was startled to see a familiar figure. Adagio was here—home early for once. Ever since that dinner, he hadn’t come home until 1 a.m., so seeing him now was a surprise. My heart skipped a beat as I walked toward him, unsure of
She was on her way to meet Matteo, who had been urging her to visit. She found him affectionate and caring, someone who was both clingy and lovable. She had kept pushing herself to see him, believing that if she spent more time with Adagio during his vulnerable moments, she could help him break free from his inner struggles.But it had taken a toll on her, too. She finally realized it would be better to free herself from the thoughts of him that constantly filled her mind.Yet, thoughts of him had become part of her. We don’t always need a reason to love someone, and that was exactly what she was holding onto. Adagio had never done anything but hurt her with his actions, yet her heart remained tethered to him.After that dinner, Adagio had left her dangling, forced to search for answers to her questions on her own.She started to realize that she thought of him only because there was nothing else to distract her. Her pages filled with his name, her sketchbook with his face, her songs w
A smirk tugged at his lips. Aster intrigued him, yet memories of his darkest days kept resurfacing, erasing any hint of affection he felt toward her. Those memories reminded him he was only trapped here because of her.Countless times, he’d tried to keep his true self hidden from her, yet it always found a way to break free, as if it were desperate to escape. He was torn between wrapping things up quickly and dragging them out just a bit longer, savoring each moment with her before it all inevitably fell apart. The day when untold truths and unspoken words would surface, breaking down every fragile brick of the bridge she was trying to build to close the distance between them, was coming—but it didn’t have to be so soon, right? Right? "I love playing baseball." He smiled a little, and it surprised her. Beneath the guy who buried himself in work and took everything so seriously, there was someone who just wanted to enjoy the little things. When they first met, she thought h
Aster~It's been two days since the fight, and Adagio has retreated back into his cold shell. We haven't had a proper conversation since then; whenever I try to talk to him, he either ignores me or pushes me away, saying something really rude. I don't intend to address the issue between Adagio and Ace; I just want to be there for him. I know the effort it took to break through the walls between us, only for him to retreat and add two more layers on top. He’s been avoiding me like I caused the fight. It's absurd to see someone react so irrationally to situations like this instead of just facing it.In the past two days, he's completely shut the world out, and while I’ve tried to tell myself he might just need some space, I'm the one feeling suffocated by his absence.My heart is drawn to him because I caught a glimpse of his humanity—that small, vulnerable part of him that slipped through. It showed me the person inside who seems desperate to break free, but Adagio keeps him hidden. I
Aster~"Oh my gosh, Mom and Dad, I've missed you both so much," I exclaimed, pulling them into a tight hug. They smiled at me, and I could feel the emptiness inside me slowly start to fade. "How have you been, Mom?" I asked as I stepped back."It's just not the same without you, sweetheart," she said with a sad smile, though she finally seemed content and happy. "And you, Dad?" I waited for his response. The last time I saw him was on my wedding day, and his mood and expression from that day flashed through my mind.I was searching for answers, but all I could find was the same guilt that had surfaced during my wedding. "Dad?" I called out, and he looked at me for a moment longer than usual before smiling, pushing away the regret that had started to reappear."I've been doing well, love," he said, pulling me closer and kissing the top of my head. But before I knew it, he was gone. He walked away, disappearing into the crowd. What happened to Papa?I didn't want to ask my mother about i
Adagio~ I've kissed countless times, and I've always had someone by my side when I wanted. Those kisses never held any meaning, and I've done a lot without any commitments. A kiss on the cheek shouldn't be keeping me up at night.Maybe it just caught me off guard, seeing her break free and act on whatever crossed her mind. I knew she was trying to get closer to me, and I knew I should protect myself from her, but my defenses crumble every time she’s around. I hated how, bit by bit, she carefully dismantled the armor I wore to guard my heart. I woke up the next day, determined to stay away from her, no matter what. I didn’t care if she thought we were building something—her high hopes weren’t my responsibility.As I walked downstairs, she came into view. Sunlight gleamed on her face, casting a soft glow in the shadows of the house. My gaze drifted to her rose-colored lips, and the memory of last night rushed back to me.Sensing my stare, she looked up from the pan. A smile spre
He took me to the most expensive restaurant in Paris. The place screamed luxury and wealth, making me feel almost out of place in such grandeur. Meanwhile, Adagio walked in as if he owned it. His presence and aura are more powerful than any amount of money could ever provide. His ruthless gaze and dangerously controlled temper seem so fragile, it feels as though one wrong move could shatter it. His words carry such authority that even the law would bow to him. And now, this kind of person has invited me to dine with him? In this moment, I feel honoured and special, though I can't promise I'm the only one he's brought to places like this. I still don't know the reason behind his generous gesture, but I'm willing to accept anything as long as it involves him. I know I'm probably just being a fool for him, but there's a small hope flickering at the edges of my heart. I sat across from him as he ordered for both of us, nodding at the waiter before turning his gaze toward me. His intens
Aster~Mark agreed to do the advertisement, and it turned out to be a huge success. Mr.s Anitta is really pleased with the outcome. As I got to know Mark better, I found him to be relaxed and fun—completely the opposite of Adagio. The sales took off just a few days after the ad was released, and profits quickly started piling up. Mr. Godwin had to delay signing the contract for a few days to reconsider his options and untimately choose us. I've already come up with a brilliant idea for marketing his products. When I explained it to Adagio, he didn't object and, once again, asked me to take the lead. Adagio has become slightly less distant than before, but the coldness is still very much there. He keeps me at arm's length. Though it hurt, I didn't complain—any progress, no matter how small, is still progress. I've been working in his office unofficially, helping with his business, and I'm not even getting paid. But I have a feeling that once all this is over, he'll push me out of hi