Ruby
I was just focusing on my work when Dad entered the room, folding a file in his hands. He looked serious, so I left all my work and listened to him.
"Ruby…" he paused for a moment. "This... this is the gift your mother left for you. It's your wedding gift."
My eyes filled with tears, but I refused to let them fall.
"It was your mother's company. The moment her company found success, she left it under your name. She knew one day you'd shine even brighter than her."
I took the file in my hands. 'Hana Foundation'.
"Dad… it was in Grandma's name. Why?"
"Because your mother loved her parents. That's why it was named after your grandma."
My jaw clenched, but I just nodded.
Dad added, "Tomorrow is my lion's wedding." He chuckled. "You should look hot like your dad."
I smirked. "Old man, don't be silly. Your daughter is more handsome than most boys in this city."
Before he left, he added—this time not looking at me, but at the door—"Start your new life with Aveline in your own house, Ruby. In this house, there are still memories that will haunt you forever."
And then he left, the door closing with a soft click. I stared at it like it would answer all my questions.
---
Adam called.
"Hello, Adam. What's wrong?"
"All preparations are done, Ruby."
"What preparations are you talking about?"
"Your wedding, Ruby. Your damn extra-large villa is now fully modified with a wedding theme. Ruby, you should have bought a smaller place—it took us three days. Three freakin' days!"
"And who the hell told you to do it?" I said flatly.
"Well, no one… but still, it's your first and last marriage. It should be at least a bit memorable."
"And your cute husky—"
"Adam. He has a name."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. Just… be ready for the surprise, Ruby."
"I've got a bad feeling about that."
I pinched the bridge of my nose and hung up. He's an idiot. I looked at the file again—Mom left this company for me. She believed that I would be like this someday.
Mom, I'm sorry for hating you all my life. For never trying to understand you. And now, when I finally do… it's already too late. You're gone.
Why, Mom? Why now? I need you. I fucking need you. Why'd you have to leave me this early?
I was screaming, tears falling freely. I couldn't be convinced otherwise. If only I'd spent more time with her…
---
The next morning, I woke up to find Adam and Luna already waiting for me. They literally dragged me for shopping.
First, it was the suit.
That was chaos, I swear.
Black Velvet Tuxedo with Satin Lapels
Good choice, Luna.
White Suit with Black Shirt
Deep Burgundy Three-Piece Suit
Charcoal Grey Slim-Fit Suit with Monogrammed Cuffs
("That's a good one," Adam said.)
Navy Blue Tux with Black Trim and Leather Gloves
"Excuse me, Luna? Gloves? Am I a knight?"
Black Mandarin Collar Suit with Gold Detailing
("For a last option," Adam muttered.)
"Guys. This is my wedding," Luna said.
"Good point. But no," I replied.
"Do whatever the hell you want. Just be fast," I snapped.
They spent an hour fighting over the suit. Then another thirty minutes choosing. Finally—after what felt like an eternity—they chose the Black Velvet Tuxedo Suit.
Next: the ring. I didn't want to buy one, but they forced me. A necklace followed. Not for me.
---
Finally, it was time.
The next morning, I had breakfast with Dad and Max. Just another Monday for me.
Max seemed way too excited for the wedding. Dad told me, "Ruby, you should go and invite your grandmother. After all, she's your grandma."
"You could just call her."
"No, Ruby. Your mother told you—maintain your relationship with your grandma. Go. It's your wedding."
I sighed. No option.
---
I drove to Grandma's house. Didn't need her address. I had my ways. I rang the bell. The staff opened it. The house was modern. Didn't matter.
"Why are you here?" she asked.
"Well, I'm here to invite you to my wedding tonight," I said, firmly, settling on the couch.
"And why would I come?"
"Because you once said I'm your granddaughter. Prove it. I'm the granddaughter of Mrs. Hana… and her daughter Loira Daniel."
She gave me the most annoyed look ever.
"Okay, I'll come. You should go and get ready for your wedding."
---
It was already evening. I was ready. Mom's necklace around my neck. My look complete.
Dad, Max, and I were leaving.
I saw Grandma. Aveline's family. Together.
Is this a warning sign? I didn't say anything.
And Alia—God, she was more excited than anyone.
Then… I saw her.
Aveline.
Nothing else mattered after that.
Her hair in a soft bun, her look ethereal, and that dress bold as hell.
Soft purple. Mermaid fit. She stood out like a goddess among mortals.
She was different. That dress? That look? Bold. But it's her boldness that makes her different from everyone else.
---
We exchanged rings.
Me—with no emotion.
Her—with a challenge.
I whispered, "Aveline, this is your last chance. If you want to run, do it. If you don't want to marry me, say it."
She whispered back, "No. I won't back out. I won't say that. I will not run away, Ruby. I choose to enter your hell. Your life. No one can stop me now."
"You're bold," I smirked. "Be ready for the consequences, Mrs. Aveline Sun."
She just looked down.
And we got married.
---
I drove us to the villa. Adam and Luna's 'modifications' stood loud and proud.
God, I hope they didn't do anything stupid.
The butler and Leon came out. Leon held something in his mouth.
> "Happy Marriage, dear Cold Hot Mafia and her Lovely Lady."
"Adam. Luna. I swear I'll kill you."
The butler greeted us.
> "Welcome, Master and Madam."
We entered. Aveline smiled a little at the banner.
Leon—my dog—was licking her gently like he was saying, Welcome.
"Your room is upstairs," I said coldly. "Next to mine. The staff will show you."
She just nodded.
I went to the study, sighed heavily, holding the necklace my mom gave me.
> "I'm always with you."
Mom… I'm sorry. But your lion is hurt this time. I don't know what to do. Or how.
---