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BOUND BY A PROMISE
[Tales of Alexia Rossi]

Author: Williams Temitayo O.
CHAPTER 5 & 6

[BALCONY]

Alexia swayed her glass in the air, tapping her teeth with her tongue while making a soft *tsk* sound. She'd been out here for two minutes or maybe more. She came to cool her head, not to listen to Carlos and Madden trading savage remarks.

Then, she heard it— slow deliberate footsteps. Someone was coming.
She sighed. Probably Carlos. Or Madden. Right. Carlos was speaking to the audience.

"Hello—" A voice called. A figure appeared beside her, holding a glass of champagne.
"Mr Madden, right?" Alexia mumbled without glancing at him.
Madden scoffed. "Mr Madden?"
Alexia rolled her eyes. "Fine, Madden."
"Yeah," he replied, his eyes roaming over her face. "Why are you here? Carlos—"
"You followed me, stop asking questions." She cut in sharply.
"Seems you and Carlos fit each other. Sharp mouthed." He smirked.
"Can I know more about you?" they said in unison, and Alexia chuckled.

Another figure joined them.
"Am I missing something?" Carlos stepped in, standing beside Alexia—so she was now caught between the two.
"No!" Alexia snapped.
Madden clenched his fists. "Bye." He turned and walked away.
"You're supposed to be in the hall, not out here!" Alexia yelled, her gaze snapping to Carlos.
"Then let's go back." He said, straightened his cuff and left without waiting.
"What a proud soul!" Alexia muttered under her breath.

Meanwhile, Madden had moved to the other side of the balcony. His assistant, Chance, stood waiting with a brown envelope. He handed it to Madden who tore it open.
"Any information?" Madden asked.
Chance hesitated. "Her name is Alexia Rossi. She was a married woman—"
"Was?" Madden raised a brow, confusion flickering across his face.
"Yes. Her husband cheated on the wedding night, with her best friend."
Madden let out a low laugh "That explains why she was acting weird in the ballroom. Anything else?"
"Hmm—I found out she has a sister. Her mother is a seamstress. Not wealthy—just middle class."
"Okay." Madden nodded.
"Their photos are in the envelope. Lastly, Alexia is 24." Chance bowed and left.
Madden's face darkened for some seconds. "I now have a part to play. I should start with her sister."

[ROSSI'S MANSION]
It had been weeks since Alexia last visited. The house wasn't grand—just a modest mansion with chipped paint and warm yellow light spilling from the windows. The smell of melted cheese, onions, and potatoes drifted out before you even reached the door.

In the kitchen, Bella—Alexia's younger sister, moved between the gas cooker and the counter, humming off-key as she stirred a big pot of Alpermagronen. Pasta, potatoes and onions simmered together, topped with a generous layer of Gruyère that was starting to bubble and brown at the edges. Flour dusted her apron, and her hair was tied up with a red scarf.

"Careful with the heat, Bella," Mrs Rossi called from the living room, her sewing machine still whirring. "You don't want it sticking like last time."
Bella rolled her eyes. "Mama, I'm 21 not 14."
Mrs Rossi chuckled. "Has Alexia called?"
Bella paused. "No, mama. Not since last three weeks."
Mrs Rossi sighed. "That girl. She's always running to fight the world alone. I just hope she's eating well."

[MADDEN SINCLAIR'S SUITE]
[MADDEN'S POV]
The door slammed shut behind me, and the sound echoed like a gunshot in the empty suite. "Get out," I said.
Chance set the folder down on the marble table and left.
I stared at the 80-inches screen. The live feed was still running. Still showing "Him." Carlos Knight. Smiling. Beside him, Alexia Rossi. Her hand in his.
"The board has chosen...Knight Corporation."
My fingers curled into a fist. I threw the glass. The crystal shattered against the screen.
"Annoying bastard. Always playing the savior. Always winning."
"Chance?" I said into the intercom, voice flat.
"Yes, Sir?"
"Double surveillance on Alexia Rossi. Not her sister. Not her mother. Her. I want to know who she talks to, where she goes, and why Carlos keeps her close."
"Sir, she's living at Knight's mansion. Access will be—"
"I don't care!" I cut him off. "If Knight wants to play nice, I'll play dirty. Let him have the project. I'll take what actually matters to him."
I killed the connection.
"Let's see how long you can protect her, Carlos."

[CARLOS'S MANSION ~ 9PM]
[ALEXIA'S POV]
The gates slid open before the car even slowed down. The gala was over. We won. Knight Corporation won.
"You didn't do well tonight," Carlos said.
"I wasn't willing to follow you. You forced me."
"You promised to give me anything."
"So...is that why you want to control me?"
"Life? To live? What life? The life you left at the bar yesterday?"
"I'm leaving tomorrow."
Carlos smirked. "Done? Little kitten, I'm not done yet."

[NEXT MORNING ~ UNIVERSITY OF GENEVA, SWITZERLAND]
The campus buzzed with noise. Bella Rossi hurried across the pathway.
"Miss Rossi," Professor Laurent called. "How generous of you to finally join us."
Soft laughter spread across the hall.
Nora whispered, "You nearly missed everything!"
Murmurs started. "That's her sister... The woman beside Carlos Knight?"
Nora slid her phone across. Headline: CARLOS KNIGHT WAS SPOTTED WITH A MYSTERY WOMAN AFTER HELVETIC DIAMOND GALA.
Bella froze. "Oh my goodness..."
"Miss Rossi." Professor Laurent stared. "If the media is more interesting than International Business Strategy, perhaps you'd like to continue the lecture."
Outside, a sleek black Bentley Flying Spur was parked. Behind the tinted glass...someone was watching her.

[KNIGHT'S MANSION ~ LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND]
Mr. Knight sat with a newspaper. Mrs. Knight sipped coffee. TV flashed: CARLOS KNIGHT WAS SPOTTED WITH A MYSTERY WOMAN...
Mrs. Knight: "Is that our son?"
Mr. Knight: "He voluntarily touched someone."
Mrs. Knight: "She's beautiful."
Mr. Knight: "And not from our social circle. Which means Carlos chose her himself."
Carlos walked in.
Mr. Knight: "So, would you like to explain why the entire country believes you're secretly dating someone?"
Carlos: "Media exaggeration."
Mrs. Knight: "Media exaggeration doesn't usually make you hold women's waist."
Mr. Knight whispered: "Our son is finished."

[UNIVERSITY OF GENEVA ~ EVENING]
Bella and Nora walked out. A black Bentley Flying Spur was parked across the road.
Nora: "That car costs more than my entire bloodline."
The window rolled down slightly. Long fingers. Silver watch. A smile in the darkness.
Nora grabbed Bella's arm. "Rich mysterious man smiling from dark cars? That's either romance or murder."
The engine started. The Bentley drove away.
Nora: "...So are we pretending that wasn't terrifying?"

[KNIGHT'S MANSION]
[ALEXIA'S POV]
The door handle refused to move. Locked.
"This man is insane," I muttered.
I banged on it. "Carlos!"
Silence.
Earlier I told him the promise was done. I attended the gala. So I planned to leave this morning. Then Carlos said "Who told you that I was done with you?"
Psycho.
No missed calls. No messages.
For the first time since entering the Knight's mansion...fear crept in.
It was the way he looked at me sometimes— like he had already decided I wasn't leaving.

TO BE CONTINUED...

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BOUND BY A PROMISE

Tales of Alexia Rossi

Author: Williams Temitayo O.

CHAPTER 3 & 4



CARLOS’S POV

She was still glaring at me like I personally ruined her wedding dress. Good. I preferred anger over tears. Tears were messy. Anger I could use.

The moment Luca and his nanny, Maria left, her mouth opened. I already knew what was coming.

“What do you want from me?” she asked. Voice steady now. No more trembling. That’s better. I didn’t want a broken woman. I wanted someone with fight.

I didn’t answer right away. I let the silence sit between us, let her feel the weight of it. She needed to understand that I wasn’t here to comfort her. I was here to negotiate.

I stood up from the bed, adjusting the cuff of my ruined suit with deliberate slowness. The fabric was ruined beyond saving. Another thing she owed me.

“There’s a gala tonight. 7 PM,” I said finally, my voice calm, controlled. “A high-profile event. The kind of place where one wrong move can ruin a reputation.”

Her eyes narrowed. “And what does that have to do with me?”

I smirked. Just a little. Enough to irritate her.

“You,” I said, stepping closer, “are going to come with me.”

She froze. “Excuse me?”

“I don’t repeat myself, Alexia.” I kept my tone light, almost indifferent. “You’ll be my plus-one tonight.”

The shock flashed across her face before she could hide it, the kind of shock that said... how did you get to know my name? Then it turned to something sharper. Suspicion.

“You’re kidding,” she said. “Why would I go anywhere with you? I don’t even know you.”

I tilted my head, studying her. The wedding makeup was smudged, her hair was a mess, and she was still in that white gown that now looked more like a crime scene than a bridal dress. But even like this… she had presence. People would look at her.

That’s all I needed.

“I don’t need you to know me,” I said quietly. “I need you to look like you do.”

Her jaw clenched. “What do you mean by that?”

I leaned in slightly, lowering my voice so only she could hear.

“I need someone. Someone who looks convincing. Someone who won’t ask questions. Someone who won’t run the moment things get uncomfortable.” I paused, letting my words sink in. “You fit the description.”

Her chest rose with a sharp breath. “So I’m just… a prop to you?”

I didn’t deny it.

“Call it whatever you want,” I replied. “But you said you’d repay me with anything. This is it. This is your first repayment.”

Her eyes flashed with anger now. Good. Anger I could work with. Anger meant she wasn’t going to roll over and play dead.

I straightened up and walked toward the door, leaving her with no choice but to either follow me or stay here and figure out her next move alone.

“Be ready,” I said over my shoulder, not bothering to look back. “And Alexia… don’t make me come back for you.”

ALEXIA'S POV

I hissed, the moment he left. Does he think I'm stupid? Gosh, Alexia, you shouldn't have requested for protection—you shouldn't have told him to that you'd give him anything.

He said I should get dressed before 7 PM, who does he think he is? A king? I scoffed.

I sighed, my stomach twisting. I'm famished. And I had no dress to wear.

A knock landed on the door. Who now? I opened it. A maid stood there holding three bags of clothes. She bowed slightly.

" Sir Carlos said I should give you this."

Alexia hesitated. She had no choice anyways. " Thanks." She murmured, shutting the door after taking the bags.

She dumped everything on the tile and blinked in surprise. " This is too much, isn't it?" she chuckled, forgetting the fact that Carlos had sent the gift through the maid.

" May Alex and Beauty perish wherever they are. " She whispered.

CARLOS KNIGHT'S POV

I stepped into the bathroom naked, my fingers running through my hair. I was still thinking about the gala when the water hit hot. It was so hot! I smirked. Seems Alexia doesn't know who she's dealing with.

I had a plan. Not dangerous. Perfect, a surprise for her. Do you think you'd know? Wait for the day... it's so close.

I grabbed my towel and wrapped it around my waist before stepping out. Betty, the maid I'd sent, was waiting.

She bowed. " Delivered, sir."

I nodded. I didn't need to look back. She was gone.

It was almost time. 6 PM. The driver should be ready. We'd leave soon before the gala start. I'd called Alexia myself, no middlemen.

ALEXIA'S POV

The adrenaline from Carlos's orders hadn't left my system. I needed ten minutes to wash the smell of lace and fear. I locked the bathroom door, stripped out of the stained wedding gown, and let the hot water hit my skin. For once, the world went quiet. No Carlos. No demand. No tension.

The steam clung to the mirror. When I stepped out, wrapping a towel around myself. It was short. Too short. One of the dresses in the bag must have come with it, and I hadn't cared enough to check.

I wiped my hair with a towel before stepping out of the bathroom. I stopped. Carlos was there. Standing by the window, hands in his pocket, like he'd been waiting. Like he belonged there.

My breath caught.

He turned at the sound, and his eyes dropped instantly. Slow. Deliberate. Roaming over the short towel clinging to my Damon skin, the curve of my collarbone, the way my hair dripped down my back. Heat rushed to my before c before I could stop it. I crossed my arms over my chest, clutching the towel tightier.

" How did you get in here?" I managed to say, my voice was lower than I wanted it to be.

He didn't answer right away. He just studied me, like I was something he'd been expecting.

" The door wasn't locked," he replied, voice calm. " I came to remind you about the gala."

" You could have knocked!"

" I did," he said. " But got no answer."

My pulse was hammering. I hated that I'd walked right into this. I hated that he was seeing me like this, and I couldn't do anything about it except to stand here and pretend I wasn't flustered.

" Get out." I commanded, stepping back toward the bathroom.

" And if I don't?" He smirked.

I was speechless.

He stepped forward. " 10 minutes, Alexia."

" What if I don't show up?" I rolled my eyes.

" Then I'll dress you myself..."

The threat landed heavy in the small space between us. I didn't reply. I just turned and slipped back into the bathroom, slamming the door behind me.

Only when I heard his footsteps move away did I let myself breathe. With my hands shaking, I pressed my forehead against the cool door and whispered.

" You're insane."

But the worst part? A small, traitorous part of me wasn't sure if I meant him or myself.

MADDEN SINCLAIR 'S POV

" Carlos..."

The name rolled out of my tongue like poison. I stood in front of the mirror while my personal assistant fixed the cuff of my suit. The fabric was custom-made, sharp enough to intimidate anyone who looked too long. Exactly how I liked it.

" Sir, your tie."

I lifted my chin slightly, allowing him to adjust it. My eyes never left my reflection. Tonight's gala wasn't just another meaningless rich- people gathering. No. Tonight was different.

Carlos Knight would be there.

And wherever Carlos appeared, trouble followed.

My jaw tightened at the thought of him. Arrogant bastard. Always acting like he owned every room he walk into. Every deal. Every person. Even after all these years, he still managed to crawl under my skin.

" Has Knight arrived?" I asked coldly.

" Not yet, Sir." My assistant replied carefully. " But his driver was seen preparing the vehicle. "

A quiet scoff left my nose.

" So, he's coming?"

Of course he was.

Carlos never missed an opportunity to show power. Galas, meetings, charity events— it didn't matter. He treated every place like a battlefield.

I slipped my watch onto my wrist slowly. " And the woman?" I asked.

My assistant hesitated for half a second. " We couldn't identify her yet, sir. But the word is...he isn't attending the gala alone."

That caught my attention.

My eyes finally left the mirror.

Carlos with a woman?

Interesting.

Because Carlos Knight hated unnecessary attachments. Women bored him quickly after it happened. After that night. So whoever this mystery woman was...she mattered somehow.

A slow smile curved my lips.

" Find out who she is before the gala ends," I ordered.

" Yes, sir."

And if Carlos thought he was walking into that gala peacefully, he was wrong.

ALEXIA'S POV

I stared at my reflection for what felt like the hundredth time. The woman in the mirror didn't look like someone who ran away from her suite hours ago. She looked dangerous.

The deep wine- red gown hugged my body perfectly, the fitted corset shaping my waist while the heavy skirt flowed around me like liquid royalty. Gold and crystals details shimmered softly beneath the room lights, elegant enough to make the dress look expensive beyond imagination. The sleeves fell around my arms in sheer layers, soft and dramatic, almost like floating wings.

I touched the fabric carefully.

" Too much," I whispered under my breath.

There was no way a man like Carlo Knight casually kept dresses like this around.

A knock landed on the door.

" Five minutes," Carlos's deep voice came from outside.

I rolled my eyes immediately.

Bossy.

I grabbed the small gold clutch sitting on the vanity and took one last breath before opening the door.

Carlos was there.

The black suit fit him perfectly, expensive enough to scream wealth without trying too hard. His dark hair was brushed back neatly, and the silver watch on his wrist reflected the hallway light.

He didn't look amazed.

" This colour suits you," he murmured.

GALA VENUE

The gala venue was massive. A luxurious glass palace overlooking Lake Zurich, glowing beneath crystal chandeliers and silver lights. Expensive cars lined the entrance while photographers, the press, paparazzi were crowded behind velvet ropes.

People everywhere.

Billionaires.

Models.

Politicians.

Famous business figures.

The kind of people Alexia had only ever seen online.

" Oh God..." Alexia whispered softly.

Carlos noticed immediately.

" Nervous?" He asked calmly.

She shot him a look. " Obviously."

A faint smile tugged at his lips before he stepped out first.

Cameras exploded.

Mr. Knight

Carlos!

This way!

Flashes lit the night violently.

Alexia's eyes widened. Why were they acting like celebrities? Then Carlos turned toward the car and stretched out his hand toward her. His expression remained calm.

Commanding.

" Come here, Alexia."

Her stomach tightened slightly at the sound of her name leaving his lips so smoothly. She placed her hand on his. And immediately regretted it because the moment she stepped out...the press lost their minds.

Are you dating?

Is she your girlfriend?

The flashes became blinding.

Alexia froze for a second. Then suddenly— Carlos's hand settled against her waist firmly. Steady. Protective. Possessive enough to make the reporters even louder.

" Relax," he murmured near her ear. " Just walk."

Easy for him to say.

She forced herself forward beside him, trying not to trip in the enormous gown while cameras continued flashing nonstop.

But Carlos...Carlos wasn't paying attention to the reporters anymore. His sharp eyes had already found someone else.

Tall.

Cold.

Watching.

The moment their eyes met, the atmosphere shifted instantly. Alexia felt it without understanding it.

Tension.

Old hatred.

The kind that didn't need words.

Madden's gaze slowly moved toward the woman beside Carlos, his expression was unreadable for one brief second before amusement flickered across his face.

Carlos noticed that look immediately.

His jaw tightened slightly.

Then, without warning, his fingers pulled Alexia a little closer against his side. A silent message.

Mine.

And Madden Sinclair understood it perfectly.

ALEXIA'S POV

The ballroom was overwhelming. Everywhere I turned, there were diamonds, champagne glasses, designer gowns, expensive watches, and people speaking in low polished voices like they were born important.

Carlos walked beside me, one hand tucked into his pocket while the other occasionally rested against my waist whenever the crowd became too tight.

Like he was used to this world.

A waiter stopped in front of us with champagne glasses. Carlos took one smoothly before handing the second glass to me.

I stared at it. " I don't drink."

" Relax," he said. " Just hold it."

I narrowed my eyes slightly.

" You say ' relax ' too much for someone this terrifying. "

For the first time tonight, a quiet laugh escaped him. It startled me. Before I could think too much about it, the light dimmed softly.

The conversations inside the ballroom slowly faded.

A large screen behind the stage lit up while a man stepped forward with a practiced smile.

" Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the Zurich Prestige Gala."

Polite applause filled the room.

I leaned slightly toward Carlos. " What exactly is this event all about?"

" Money," he replied simply.

I blinked. " Is that all?"

" And power."

Oh.

The man on stage continued speaking confidently about luxury brands, international partnership, private investors, and the future expansion of elite businesses across Switzerland.

That sounded more believable.

This wasn't politics. It was rich people competing with richer people.

" The Prestige Award," the host continued, " will be presented tonight to the corporation chosen to lead the Helvetic Diamond project."

The screen behind him changed. Images of luxury resorts, high- end shopping districts, and futuristic hotel designs appeared.

Murmurs spread across the room.
Even I could tell the project was huge. A luxury business district in the heart of Zurich. Hotels. Private shopping centres. The kind of project that would make headlines for months.

" The final two corporations selected for consideration," the host announced dramatically, " are Knight Corporation and Sinclair Global."

The room erupted into applause immediately. But beside me, Carlos became still. Not tense. I looked up at him carefully. His sharp gaze was fixed somewhere across the room.

I followed his line of sight instinctively, only to see a tall man standing near the opposite side with a champagne glass in hand.

Dark suit.

Cold expression.

Sharp eyes locked directly into Carlos. The tension between them was immediate. Heavy. Uncomfortable. The stranger smiled first. Not warmly. More like a challenge.

And Carlos...Carlos smiled back the exact same way. My stomach tightened. Okay. That must be Sinclair. I looked between both men slowly.

Definitely enemies.

CARLOS'S POV

Madden Sinclair was enjoying this. I could tell from the look on his face. The bastard stood across the ballroom with his champagne glass resting lazily between his fingers, looking entirely too relaxed for someone who'd spent the last three years trying to destroy every major deal connected to me.

And now he was staring at Alexia. Wrong move.

Alexia noticed the shift immediately. " You look like you want to kill someone."

" Maybe I do."

She blinked at me. " That wasn't a normal response. "

I ignored her.

Because Madden had started walking toward us. Confidently. Like he had all the time in the world. Several guests subtly moved out of his path the moment they noticed him approaching. That alone said enough about the kind of man he was.

" Carlos Knight," he drawled lazily, " still alive. Impressive."

I smiled faintly. " Madden Sinclair. Still unemployed?"

Alexia nearly choked on her champagne.

Good.

Madden laughed softly, though his eyes remained cold. " And here I thought Switzerland's fresh air would have improved your personality."

" Unfortunately, seeing your face ruined it."

The tension between us was sharpening every second. Even the nearby guests were pretending not to watch now.

Madden's gaze finally shifted toward Alexia. Not lustful. Just curious. " Well," he murmured smoothly, " aren't you full of surprise tonight?"

Alexia blinked once. " Excuse me?"

" You brought a company," His eyes flickered toward me again. " That's rare."

" And you are?" He asked politely.

Before Alexia could answer—

" She's not your business." I cut in.

Madden tilted his head slightly. " That serious? Now I'm curious."

" You're always curious right before things go bad for you."

A soft " Oh my God " escaped Alexia under her breath. Madden actually heard it.

" She's funny." He remarked.

" Don't get attached."

Alexia elbowed me immediately. Madden even looked more interested.

Alexia looked up at him. " My condolences."

Madden chuckled.

" You guys are absolutely insane. " She muttered under her breath.

Before the conversation could even get weirder, the host's voice echoed through the room again.

" Ladies and gentlemen, please direct your attention to the stage."

Thank God.

" This evening," the host announced proudly ," " both finalist corporations will present their visions for the Helvetic Diamond Project before the board makes it's final decision."

Murmured began spreading.

The host smiled brightly. " Representing Sinclair Global..."

Applause filled the room as Madden handed his champagne glass to a passing waiter. Then he glanced toward me one last time.

" Try not to murder anyone while I'm gone," he told me casually.

" No promises."

Madden smirked before walking away.

The audience watched carefully as a digital presentation appeared behind Madden. Luxury architecture designs.

Even I had to admit it looked impressive.

" He's good. " I heard Alexia say.

" I know. "

After Madden finished his speech, the host smiled again.

" And now...representing Knight Corporation. Mr Knight Carlos, please step forward."

The energy changed.

Even the applause sounds different.

Carlos handed me his champagne glass before adjusting the cuff of his suit. Then his gaze met mine briefly.

" Try not to fall in love with Sinclair while I'm gone."

I nearly choked.

" What—"

He was already walking toward the stage. And somehow...every single person in the ballroom were watching him.

TO BE CONTINUED

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Author: Williams Temitayo Oluwapelumi

PROLOGUE

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

The last thing I expected on my wedding night in Geneva, was silence. Not the peaceful kind, not the soft, romantic quiet people talk about.

This silence felt wrong and heavy. It was like something was hiding inside it.

I stood outside Beauty's suite door, my fingers still wrapped around the handle, my heart pounding for no reason I could explain. The laughter from downstairs had faded, the music long gone, leaving only the distant echo of celebration.

Our celebration. Or at least... it was supposed to be.

I pushed the door open, and everything shattered. At first, I didn't understand what I was seeing.

Two figures. They were too close. Too familiar. My breath caught in my throat.

No, no... this wasn't real. But it was real.

My husband and my best friend. The same one who held my veil just hours ago, the same one who smiled in every picture, the same one I trusted.

A strange ringing filled my ears. I couldn't hear their voices, couldn't make out whatever excuses or panic might have followed.

I didn't stay long enough to listen, because some betrayals don't need explanations.

I turned, walked and ran.

The night air hit me like a slap the moment I stepped outside. Cold, sharp and real, unlike everything I had just left behind.

I didn't know where I was going. I wasn't even thinking.

I just moved, heels clicking against stone, dress dragging behind me, makeup still perfect... like some cruel joke.

The bar was the first place I found.
Dim lights. Low music. Strangers who didn't know me. Perfect.

I sat down and ordered something strong, stronger than I'd ever had before.

One glass turned into two, then three. Maybe more. I wasn't counting, I just needed the noise in my head to stop.

The way my whole life had fallen apart in a single moment.

I let out a small, broken laugh, staring into the glass in my hand. "Pathetic," I whispered. "Absolutely pathetic."

"Not pathetic."

The voice was deep and calm. It was composed for a place like this.

I looked up.

And that's when I saw him. He didn't look like he belonged there, everything about him was controlled. Expensive. Untouchable.

His eyes studied me, not with pity, not with curiosity... but something sharper. Something that saw too much.

I swallowed, suddenly aware of how I must look. A bride, looking disheveled, ruined and lost.

I let out a shaky breath, my fingers tightening around the glass.

"Do I look like a joke?" I asked, my voice barely steady.

He didn't answer immediately. Instead, he pulled out the chair across from me and sat down.

"Tell me what happened," he said.

And something about the way he said it wasn't soft. It was just certain. It made the words slip out before I could stop them.

"My husband," I said, my voice cracking, "cheated on me... with my best friend."

Silence stretched between us.

I laughed again, quieter this time.
"Funny, right?" I murmured. "wedding night... and I lose everything."

He watched me carefully.

Then his gaze softened, just slightly. But it was not enough to be called kindness.

I leaned forward, the alcohol loosening my thoughts, my pride already long gone.

"I need help," I whispered.

The words tasted unfamiliar. Bitter.
I had never asked anyone for help before.

But tonight...tonight, I had nothing left to hold onto.

I met his eyes, desperation finally breaking through.

"Help me," I said.

A pause.

My voice dropped even lower.
"I'll repay you... with anything."

The air shifted.

Something changed in his expression—subtle, but unmistakable.

Not shock, not amusement. As if he had just stepped into a game he understood very well. He leaned back slightly, studying me like a decision had already been made.

He spoke.

"Be careful," he said quietly. "promises like that... tend to change lives."

A chill ran down my spine.

But I didn't take it back.

I couldn't.

Because I didn't know it yet, but that moment, that one reckless sentence...was the beginning of everything.

---

CHAPTER 1 & 2

I opened my eyes slowly, a strong headache hit me and I closed my eyes back. I groaned and opened my eyes again, after looking around the room, I realised I wasn't in my room—my new home.

I gasped.

I tried standing up but I couldn't, then everything that happened last night flashed back into my head.

The betrayal I wasn't meant for. It wasn't supposed to be Beauty, my best friend.

FLASHBACK - LAST NIGHT

Yes. Alex had told me he wanted to step outside to have fun with his friends. It was taking long, and I was feeling bored so I had no choice but to also feel the place—my mind went straight to Beauty, the one who held my veil hours ago.

I took slow steps to her suite, but before I could even get to the door, I started hearing strange voices. Wait! What's going on in Beauty's room? I can't be Sam, can he? No... Beauty and Sam had broken up long time ago, or was I hearing double?

Oh, Alexia!

I ignored the noises and stepped forward. I smiled, then my eyes landed on the door—it was slightly ajar. Why's Beauty acting this way? Is something wrong with her...oh she told me she'd cramps; but it's unusual of her to open the door this way.

I hesitated. My heart was slamming hard against my chest. What's wrong with me? I was having a bad feeling about this...yet this noise escaping from the room wouldn't just stop. I was curious...I was always curious, but not to this point.

Should I say curiosity made me see what I wasn't supposed to see. I pushed the door open, the smile on my face fell first, then I staggered back, my back hit the door which made the two familiar people standing in front of me...look at me. I frowned.

"Alex?" I called to confirm if he was the one. He faced me...I didn't know when tears rushed out of my eyes while my palm flew to my mouth. I was shocked!!! Shocked to the bone! What expression can I use to explain myself? Beauty with Alex, my man?

"No... this isn't real, right?" I laughed nervously. I was waiting for their reply. Beauty made a first move.

"Love what you saw? Honeydrop, please let's continue."

Alex didn't spare me a glance, he was ignoring me and I knew it.

"Stop it!" I yelled insanely, my hair slapped my face. I don't care if I looked like a mad woman right now. I don't.

The two didn't stop... instead, their madness grew wild. Beauty and Alex kissing?

I sniffled. It's alright, this is not the end of the world. I knew I was hurt even though I said that word to just calm myself.

I didn't turn back.

I walked.

And ran...

To anywhere that can help me feel less pain. I didn't know where I was heading to. Could it be happening elsewhere? A newly wedded wife got betrayed on her wedding night? Before I knew it, I entered into a bar...a bar where I met strangers.

I let out a small broken laugh as I stared at the glass in my hand.

"Pathetic," I whispered. "Absolutely pathetic."

"Not pathetic."

I looked up.

END OF FLASHBACK

My stomach grumbled. I managed to get out of the bed before I could throw up. It wasn't necessary anyways because I threw up right there. On him.

Who?

My eyes almost fell out of their socket. I raised my head gradually, my heart already doing the introduction.

I saw him. The young man that I met at the bar yesterday—the one I told to help me.

I fell to the floor dramatically, my eyes closed immediately—obeying the energy.

I heard him scoff.

---

CARLOS

Does she think I'm a fool? Of course not. I knew she was pretending. What a dramatic fellow! Was this the same lady I helped yester-night?

I just wanted to clear my head, and nothing else. Immediately I entered the bar, I looked around for where to stay. It would be so useless to drink alone, right? I nodded slowly, exhaling, then I sighted her. Alone. Broken. Laughing silently...alone. I walked to her table and I heard her mutter some words.

"Absolutely pathetic."

I knew such sentence wouldn't come this way with some bad drama behind. I couldn't control my mind.

"Not pathetic."

My voice was deep and calm, too composed for a place like this.

She looked up...and I saw the expression on her face. True. Something like I didn't look like I belonged here because I looked expensive and untouchable.

"Do I look like a joke?" she asked, her voice barely steady.

My eyes studied her, not with pity, but something sharper. Something that saw too much.

I saw her swallow, she suddenly became aware of how she looked. A bride. Disheveled. Lost and ruined. She let out a shaky breath, her fingers tightening around the glass.

"Do I look like a joke?" she asked, her voice barely steady.

I smiled slightly before taking a seat beside her. Seems this boring boredom is gonna leave me soon, I thought.

"Tell me what happened," I said.

I saw her hesitance. She didn't want to but I didn't know what happened. Her lips parted and she spilled everything.

"My husband," she said, her voice cracking, "cheated on me... with my best friend."

Silence stretched between us.

It felt heavy.

I blinked. I wasn't expecting that.

She laughed again, pain in her voice. "Funny right?" she murmured. "I lost everything...everything on my wedding night."

I watched her carefully, then my gaze softened—just slightly. Not enough to be called kindness, but enough to be noticed.

She leaned forward, the alcohol loosening her thoughts, her pride already long gone.

"I need help," she whispered.

I felt bitterness in the air. The way it tasted in her mouth...the way she said those words felt like she hadn't asked for a help since when she was born.

Our gazes met.

"Help me," she repeated.

A pause.

Her voice dropped even lower, meaning everything.

"I'll repay you... with anything."

The air shifted.

Something changed in my expression.

I was a little bit shocked. I didn't let her notice it, I kept it instantly. I leaned back slightly, studying her like a decision had already been made.

I spoke.

"Be careful," I said quietly. "promises like that... tend to change lives."

She shivered.

But I didn't take it back.

I couldn't.

I knew where I was heading to...but I didn't know where everything is going to get started.

---

"Get up, we need to talk."

I heard him say. He knew I was pretending.

I opened my eyes immediately and got up. My gaze landing on his spoilt suit. I scratched the back of my head, not knowing what to say.

"Good morning, sir." I managed to mutter, my ears longing to hear his reply.

He smirked. "Sir?"

I nodded, pressing some strands of hair behind my ear.

"You didn't call me that last night." He said between his teeth. I smiled secretly.

"Sit."

He commanded.

I rolled my eyes before sitting on the bed. I was still staring at his spoilt suit.

My lips parted...

"No worries. A maid is here already." He sighed.

A second passed and a knock landed on the door. I stood...my gaze meeting his again.

His eyes roamed around her body, maybe searching for a lost item or was he staring? I snapped inwardly, rolling my eyes again.

"Come in."

The door creaked open, and a young lady stepped in. "Good morning, Mr Carlos." she bowed slightly, a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

He only nodded.

I scoffed. Rich people and their pride.

Nonsense.

The maid dropped to her knees, scrubbing at the floor without a single glance in my direction. Like I wasn't even there. Like I was just another mess Carlos had to deal with this morning.

I was still glaring at his spoilt suit when the door suddenly burst open.

"Sir!"

The voice was sharp, rushed, female. A nanny, maybe? She was holding the hand of a small boy, barely four, with black hair that fell messily over his forehead. He had the same sharp, observing eyes as Carlos.

"Sir, I told him not to come in here, that you were busy with someone," the nanny said, bowing low, voice shaking. "But he didn't listen."

Carlos exhaled through his nose, like he was used to this. "That's okay."

Before I could process it, the boy yanked his hand free and climbed onto the bed with zero fear. He didn't look at the maid. Didn't look at the nanny. He looked straight at Carlos and wrinkled his nose.

"Daddy, you smell weird," the boy said, blunt and honest. "Did you drink again?"

The word hit me like a slap.

Daddy?

My stomach twisted. The room went quiet. The maid stopped moving. The nanny looked like she wanted the ground to swallow her whole.

And I just... stared.

Carlos. With a son?

A four-year-old son. Right here. Right now. On the same bed I was sitting on.

I felt my chest tighten, like someone had wrapped a rope around it and pulled.

He hadn't mentioned a child. Not once last night. Not when I said "I'll repay you with anything." Not when he looked at me like I was a decision he'd already made.

So what was I? A distraction? A side thing? Another woman in his complicated life?

Carlos ruffled the boy's hair, completely unbothered by the tension in the room. "It's fine. Go sit down, Luca."

Luca.

The name slid out smooth, like he'd said it a thousand times. The boy grinned, then turned those same sharp eyes on me. He tilted his head, studying me like I was some puzzle he couldn't figure out.

"Who's the lady, Daddy? She looks sad."

Sad?

I wanted to laugh. Sad, didn't even begin to cover it. Humiliated, betrayed, and now... out of place. That was closer.

My throat felt dry. I opened my mouth, but no sound came out. What was I supposed to say? Hi, I'm the stranger your daddy helped last night after I caught my husband cheating?

Carlos noticed. Of course he did. His gaze flickered to me for half a second before he turned back to Luca.

"She's a guest, Luca. Be polite."

A guest? That's all I was to him.

The nanny finally stepped forward and gently pulled Luca off the bed. "Come on, young master. Let's leave Mr. Carlos to talk."

Luca didn't protest. He waved at Carlos, then gave me one last curious look before he was dragged out the door.

The door clicked shut behind them.

Silence fell again. But this time, it was heavier. Different.

Last night, the silence was about betrayal. This morning, it was about secrets.

And Carlos had a lot of them.

I swallowed, my fingers digging into the edge of the bedsheet. I didn't know what to feel first — anger, disappointment, or the strange ache in my chest that had nothing to do with Alex.

I looked up at Carlos. He was watching me now, calm as ever. Like he'd expected this reaction.

Like he'd been waiting for me to realize.

"Is there anything else you're not telling me, Mr. Carlos?" I asked, my voice steadier than I felt.

Because if he thought I was just going to sit here and pretend this was normal... he had another thing coming.

---

CARLOS

She asked if there was anything else I wasn't telling her. Guess she knew my name when Maria chased Luca into this room.

Cute.

She thinks she's in a position to demand answers from me. After one night. After vomiting on my suit. After calling me "sir" like I'm some stranger she picked up at a bar.

I didn't answer.

I just watched her. Watched the way her jaw tightened, the way her fingers dug into the bedsheet like she was holding herself back from standing up and storming out. Good. Let her feel off balance. She needs to remember she's not the one calling the shots here.

I leaned back against the headboard, crossing my arms. My ruined suit still clung to me, the smell of vomit faint but there. I should be angry. I should've thrown her out the moment she made a mess of my room.

Instead, I let her stay.

"I said let us talk earlier," I said finally, my voice flat. No emotion. No explanation.

I ignored her question completely. Like it was beneath me. Because it was.

She blinked, clearly thrown off by me dodging it. Good. She needs to learn that I don't explain myself. Not to her. Not to anyone.

"You fainted dramatically this morning," I continued, like we were discussing the weather. "Now you're awake. Now we talk."

I paused, studying her face. The defiance was still there, but underneath it... fear. Confusion. A little bit of hurt. She thinks she knows what she walked into.

She doesn't.

Not even close.

"You said you'd repay me with anything," I said slowly, each word deliberate. "I'm giving you a chance to do that now."

I didn't elaborate. I didn't need to let her mind fill in the blanks, let her wonder what 'anything' actually means to a man like me.

The truth? I didn't help her last night out of kindness. I don't do kindness.

I saw an opportunity. A desperate woman. A perfect alibi. A clean slate I could use to bury something else.

But she doesn't need to know that yet.

Not now. Maybe not ever.

For now, she's useful. And useful people don't get to ask questions. Not until I say they can.

I tilted my head, eyes locked on hers.

"So," I said quietly. "Are you going to sit there and glare at me all day? Or are you actually going to listen?"

To be continued...

---

😂🥰Team Alexia or Team Carlos