Felicia's POV
His expression changed. I had forgotten that he had been drinking, which explained his slightly glazed eyes. "Follow me," he said, and began walking. I obediently trailed behind him.
Due to the vastness of the mansion, it took us a few minutes to reach a room. In front of us stood a magnificent door. He opened it, revealing a spacious office. Large bookshelves lined the walls, filled with books and documents in cartons and folders. In the center, there was an office table with a swivel chair. Two chairs were placed in front of the table for potential guests.
I stood at the doorway while Kalixo held the door to prevent it from closing. His expression was serious, as if I were a candidate he was about to interview. "You can either come in willingly or I'll drag you in. You want answers, don't you?"
I didn't reply and walked into his office. I heard the door close behind me, but I noticed
Morning came. I couldn't sleep properly. Who could sleep well in a situation like this? I was kidnapped, and they planned to use my company for their drug operations, which was Kalixo's surprise for his father. They even intended to involve me in the transactions, using my name. My status as number one would be used to boost drug sales, like sales skyrocketing due to the influence of an endorser. Just like my new shoe model that was recently launched. Its sales exceeded my expectations. Sometimes advertising has a significant impact. There was a knock on the door, and it opened. It was Maria, pushing a cart with a tray of food. Compared to the meals she used to cook for me when I was in the old house, this food looked delicious. I was attacked by a sense of shame. I was locked up here, and it seemed like life was still comfortable. These might be my last moments because I felt like I would eventually die. This was my current situation while I knew that my parents had almost lost the
Felicia POVToday is the day when Kalixo is absent. I woke up early in the morning hoping to escape from Kalixo's men, but as soon as I stepped out of my room, two guards were stationed in front of the door. They followed me like obedient shadows wherever I went in this mansion.I noticed that one of the guards had a phone in the right pocket of his pants. If I could get hold of it, I could make a call to my family and let them know that I'm safe and there's no need to worry.I turned into a different direction, not knowing the layout of Kalixo's mansion, so I had no idea where I was headed. I discreetly glanced at the guards from time to time as I pretended to look around the walls and ceiling, which had no remarkable decorations hanging.I saw that the hallway had an end. Perfect, I had a plan. I acted as if I was distracted, moving my gaze around like a child."Where are you g
Kalixo settled into his kitchen, preparing a meal specifically tailored for Felicia. After rescuing her earlier and administering CPR, he couldn't believe she had been so intoxicated as to stumble into the deep end of the water. Especially knowing that she had mentioned her inability to swim.Once he finished cooking, Kalixo swiftly made his way to Felicia's room, carrying a plate of food and a glass of water. The door was ajar, so he gently placed the plate and glass on a nearby table.Felicia was still oblivious, peacefully asleep in her bed. After setting down the food and drink, Kalixo headed out, frustrated by the incompetence of his subordinates. If he hadn't arrived in time, he would have found nothing but a lifeless body, cold and motionless.As Kalixo stepped outside, he quickly retrieved the gun concealed in his waistband, hidden behind his pants. He gripped it tightly before shooting the two guards stationed n
KALIXO POV I raised my hands while gazing into her fierce eyes. "Lower your gun, Felicia," I commanded. "And who are you to order me around?" she retorted. I felt my blood rise and the veins pulsate on my forehead. I despised being belittled, especially by a woman like her. Thankfully, I hadn't punished her yet because she played a crucial role in our business. Her face was necessary. "You won't be able to leave here even if you kill me now," I stated simply. I noticed my newly arrived henchman. He didn't carry a gun, most likely disarmed by this woman. It seemed I would have to reduce the number of my men present since they were useless. We locked eyes, Felicia and I. She must have sensed something because she quickly glanced behind her and aimed the gun at my henchman. But it was a wrong move. I swiftly jumped off my desk and approached her from behind. I trapped her in my arms and grabbed the gun in her hands. I raised it and easily wrestled it away. She let go of it in surpr
FELICIA POVI cooked a meal for Kalixo to eat. I had just finished cleaning and stitching his wounds. I also took out the bullet that had lodged in him, luckily it wasn't as deep as I had initially thought. I am skilled in such matters because I cannot allow myself to be caught in a situation where I don't know what to do. I need to protect myself and take care of myself, especially since I believe that not all the time will the people we trust come to our aid in times of need.I instructed his men to help him change into a fresh set of clothes. Just a shirt and shorts, so he would feel more comfortable. He had also suffered cuts and bruises on his legs.After preparing a warm vegetable soup, I brought it to his room. Kalixo's guards kept a close eye on me, even from the kitchen. Perhaps they thought I would poison the food. That thought did cross my mind earlier, but it quickly faded away. Maybe if I prove myself to be
FELICIA POVThe last thing Kalixo told me yesterday was that I could do anything I wanted here in the mansion. That's why I've been wanting to climb up a mango tree for a long time. The tree has many fruits, and I can see that most of them are ripe. Why don't his staff pick them?"Here, let me catch them!" one of the servants, who moved with grace like a lady, caught the mangoes I dropped. She carried a basket that was already full. I'll devour all of them later. Mangoes are delicious, and they're my father's favorite. I'll bring some to him once everything settles down. I climbed down from the tree, which wasn't too high.Ever since Kalixo said those words, I haven't felt any fear or apprehension. I believe in him to some extent because even though we're business rivals, he's not the kind of villain who would kill me for money alone. I didn't bother asking him about his plans because I know he has nothing to say to me.
THIRD PERSON POVKalixo found himself in a state of disarray, his hair in disheveled disarray. "Damn it!" he cursed, his attention now shifted towards Maria. "What do I do now?!"Maria could only squint her eyes. She hadn't expected this night to involve a murder. But it was her job, to eliminate potential threats and further reduce their enemies' chances. Maria opened her eyes again. "Sir Kalixo, I know you care for Madam, but we need to act quickly because our adversaries are expanding their connections. For now, I haven't had any difficulty in guarding the Avimayor family and her friend, but we still need to be extra cautious from now on, as the day will come when we won't be able to."Kalixo swallowed hard before turning to the lifeless body of the man shot by Maria. "Did you really have to kill your own twin? He's your brother—""Come inside. You need to see Madam, she's surely in tears be
THIRD PERSON POVThere was chaos outside Kalixo's office. Many people carried placards with hate speech against him and their company. He furrowed his brow as he stepped out of his car. A woman holding a large cardboard with red-font writing suddenly screamed upon seeing Kalixo."Montenegro is here!!!!!!"Everyone turned towards Kalixo, causing a commotion as they swarmed around him. His bodyguards quickly rushed to protect him. The crowd shouted and threw hurtful words at him while he continued walking, closely guarded by his security."Montenegro!! Release Avimayor!!""No matter what you do, you'll never be like him!!""Montenegro, you're a curse!!""You're a criminal! You're part of the kidnappers!" Kalixo immediately looked for the man who made that statement, but he seemed to disappear. The shouts briefly halted, as if pausing for a
Felicia's POV I woke up feeling a warm body enveloping me. It's Kalixo. We had a great night, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss his husky voice whispering my name. It seemed like my name was the most beautiful in the world. Thinking he was still asleep, I lifted my head to find him already looking at me, a smile on his face. "Good morning, my queen," he greeted, planting a small kiss on my forehead. I smiled. But my smile faded as I remembered Deokwa, and Kalixo and I discussed his decision to surrender to the police and reveal everything he knew. [Flashback] I sat on the bed after ending a call with Deokwa. I couldn't fathom how he found out Kalixo was here. If it was Deokwa, it wasn't impossible that he had eyes on me everywhere I went. Kalixo sat beside me. "Tomorrow, I'll tell the truth." I looked at him. "Wh-What?" "I don't want to see that pain, fear, and anxiety in your eyes, Felicia. My lies need to stop. I never truly protected you; it was a wrong decision. Now,
Felicia's POVAfter my conversation with Dad, I couldn't bring myself to eat the food he had bought for me. I'm not angry with him; it's just that the information he shared hasn't fully sunk in yet.As I was about to ascend the stairs, I suddenly felt a buzz at the top of my head. I quickly turned towards my room. Who could it be? There couldn't be any commotion here with Dad around."Felicia, honey—""Yes, Dad!" I replied, raising my voice, which startled him since he was right behind me, carrying the food.His mouth fell agape. "U-Uh, let's just put this in your room's fridge—""I've got it, Dad!" I said with a wide smile. "Don't worry, everything is fine!"Dad blinked three times. "E-Everything is... is fine...?""Yes! Absolutely! I'll take care of it. Thank you!" I immediately grabbed the plastic bags and went upstairs.Dad was left scratching his head in bewilderment. When I reached my door, I realized it was locked from the inside. I raised my hand to turn the doorknob. Now, the
Felicia's PerspectiveCedrick and I had finally returned home. The house was heavily guarded, as we had recently hired a team of butlers. Tomorrow marked a significant day, the day when I would reveal the truth to everyone, including... Kalixo.A sudden pang in my chest gripped me, but I brushed it aside. It no longer mattered.Technically, I wouldn't be revealing it alone. I would be joined by Cedrick and Rose. Rose would present the information, and I would second every statement and confirm the details. I would also work from home, as it was deemed too risky for me to venture outside. And indeed, it was a dangerous world out there."Felicia, your father and I are going out for a bit," Mommy announced.I was in the living room, watching the news. The city had fallen silent, especially now that those who had been with me in captivity had returned. Thankfully, they had been instructed not to disclose anything about me."Where are you headed, Mommy?" I inquired."Your father will be vi
FELICIA'S PERSPECTIVEWith resolve, I unveiled the truth. "My brother concealed that drug. I conducted in-depth research on it and stumbled upon a groundbreaking chemical with the potential to revolutionize human health. I refrained from using it, awaiting the collaboration of other experts in the field. My investigations took place in my perfume laboratory. Rest assured, it is well-secured. Only my secretary has access due to her exceptional genetics."Cedrick interjected with a question, his tone earnest. "Felicia, I have a query. Who, if I may ask, was the fortunate individual who received the drug successfully?"I hesitated, fully aware of the magnitude of this revelation in his life. "I will disclose that information at a more opportune moment. For now, our focus must be on more pressing matters. The reason they pursue me is the possession of the formula. I'll compile a list of involved parties, recognizing that some may no longer be among the living."As I commenced typing the n
FELICIA POV"Are you sure about your decision, Felicia?" Cedrick asked me. We were currently in the living room, joined by my parents and his family. I had told them that today was the day I planned to reveal everything, and I wouldn't postpone it any longer.I nodded. "I am strong, and there's nothing wrong with me. Besides, that's the whole point of all this—the truth. I can't stay here and keep quiet any longer because we don't know what they're planning. We're not certain."My father sighed deeply. "If that's truly your decision, daughter, I won't stop you. Just make sure, my child, that you stay by Cedrick's side no matter what happens."Cedrick's wife held my hand. She didn't say a word, just gave me a reassuring smile. I held onto her hand as a reminder that everything would be okay."Don't worry. I'm here now, and they won't dare harm me because they need me," I said confidently.My mother furrowed her brow. "What do you mean, child?"I simply smiled in response.--As soon as
Felicia POVMy feet felt numb after the almost 30 minutes of walking and running through the woods. Blood and bodies of dead people spread all over the woods. It's a creel, a hella creepy place that old man made."Montenegro said no one will be able to see us if we'll take the path. I doubt that at first but it seemed like he's telling truth. I wonder where did the other people go," Cedrick took a glance on me. "We're here. You can explain everything to me now,"I sighed. We stopped on our tracks. We reached an empty road and a car hidden in the bushes. "Are we going to wait for your friend investigator?""Nope. She already plotted something. Minutes by now, reinforcements are coming. I need you to be safe. Let's go," he said and led me inside the car. Car is a bit old. Cedrick started it and immediately drive. It works well despite it's rusty appearance. "Explain, Felicia," he added, as he drives the car. I sighed. "I've been searching for those people who killed my brother Leo. T
FELICIA POV A certain noise woke up my entire body system. Someone is screaming, and a strange vibration made my heart pound into its beat. When I fully opened my eyes, it turned out that it isn't coming from my place. It's in another cell. And I was separated from the others. . .or might be. . .an another room? "Let me out of here! Let me talk to her!!" Its a voice of a woman. "Shut up!" I heard from a man. I roamed my eyes around the cell. It's different. This isn't the usual cell I'm at before. There's no one but me in this place. The temperature in here gave me goosebumps already. As I sit myself up, I tried to remember what happened before I woke up and see myself in here. It was clearly on my mind that I passed out when I got panic attack after watching the huge screen playing live videos of people killing each other. I may not know the real reason of my triggers but it could definitely be one of the reason why I wanted the Boss to finished his delusions. He is a crazy psy
FELICIA POV Duguang collapsed onto the floor, with Kalixo still clutching his side where my small knife had found its mark. It paled in comparison to the horrors they had inflicted on my brother Leo. With a complete lack of emotion, I turned to the Boss, who now wore a sinister grin while gripping his katana. "Finally, the true colors of an Avimayor emerge. I had a feeling Leo entrusted that to you. And I refuse to believe it's gone," he taunted. A glint emanated from the golden necklace hanging around his neck. A sudden sense of dread washed over me, and the hairs on my neck stood on end as I sensed a looming, shadowy presence. In the blink of an eye, the Boss vanished from my sight. "I never thought you could do that to my protege," he remarked. Protege? Kalixo? They were both heartless! I spun around, ready to strike, but the Boss had disappeared as if I had swiped at thin air. Panic began to creep in as I searched frantically, unable to locate him or sense his presence. Could
FELICIA POVDid Kalixo truly no longer care about me? Should I truly believe in the words he had just uttered? It hurt, the pain was so overwhelming that I could hardly tear my gaze away from his emotionless eyes. Was it really that easy for him to cast me aside?He walked slowly towards me, head held high, our gazes never parting. I couldn't fathom why I almost recoiled when he trapped me between his arms against the wall, his piercing stare moving from my eyes to my nose, then my lips, and back to my eyes. I couldn't help but gasp when I heard the sound of him drawing a knife from the wall. He then walked away from me and turned his back."You're still just a woman, Avimayor," the old man suddenly interjected, causing me to avert my gaze from Kalixo's imposing figure. "Do you really think you stand a chance against him?"I turned to the old man in annoyance, then quickly ran towards him and leaped onto a table, launching myself in his direction. He managed to evade me, but my table-