The ride home was silent. My mind replayed the words from the caller — what did he want?
"Thanks," she said softly.
"I'm sorry, but it's important," came the reply.
Meeting with Him
"Father, you sent for me?"
"Yes, Adrino! And as a matter of fact, I have news for you."
"Spill it."
"You know I'm officially retiring. That means everything you've worked for can finally be put into proper practice."
"So, what are you implying?"
"I'm saying you can now officially rule my empire. But—"
"But?"
"You need to getmarried— or at least engaged — to Natalie Andrews."
"What?"
"Yes. I want you to marry her and take care of everything else. Transferring shares, the business—"
"Well, father..."
"Do you have any issues with that, Lucifer?"
"No, father," was all I could say.
I couldn't believe my own ears, yet I felt an unfamiliar pain. Why did it hurt so much, knowing it would hurt Meena?
I couldn't bring myself to tell her as I drove to the mafia headquarters.
This deal was massive. Finally, I could prove what I'd been fighting for since childhood:
I'm strong enough to handle whatever my father throws at me. And if it means losing a lot... I won't mind. Not the world, not even Meena.
Blackout.
Surprising Turn of Events
It had been two weeks since my trip with Adrino. Short-lived as it was, I'd been in clear sight. He came home late and left early without a word. It felt like the old him had returned.
I missed the way he looked at me — how a single glance could carry a thousand unspoken emotions.
"I miss Adrino," I whispered to myself.
Suddenly, I heard voices downstairs. Hopeful, I went down, expecting to see him — but what I found shattered my world.
"Hi, Meena. This is Natalie," Adrino said calmly.
My mouth went dry as I saw her —Natalie.
What the hell is she doing here? My mind screamed.
"Meena, Natalie. Natalie, Meena," he said casually.
"Adrino, who is she?" I barely managed to ask.
"Meena, meet Natalie — my fiancée. Soon to be your replacement," he added with a cold tone.
My stomach twisted. Natalie smiled politely, and all I could do was force a radiant smile back.
"Welcome, Miss Natalie. Congratulations on your engagement," I said, my voice steady despite the storm inside.
Without waiting for a response, I turned and walked away. Upstairs, I grabbed my things and whispered:
My old room... just four more months, and my contract ends. I can be strong for this remaining time.
I kept telling myself: I would never be enough for anyone — not even for myself.
For the first time in years, I admitted I was hurt.
Why did he have to confuse me with kindness and gentleness? Why pretend when it was all a lie?
The sound of the door snapping shut brought me back.
Adrino's POV
"Meena."
"Please, Adrino. Let me be. I've had enough surprises today. I hope my services still meet your expectations. I'll continue until the last day of my contract. But I won't engage in small talk unless necessary."
"Thank you for taking this lightly," I said coldly, pushing through with what little strength I had, locking the door behind me.
I've tried to explain, but what difference would it make?
And managing Natalie — telling Meena the truth would only make things worse. My pride won't allow it. I refuse to be seen as weak.
This is why I hate people. Everyone needs someone courageous — and that's supposed to be me. Maybe that's why I'm still attached to Meena — she's genuine, confident. Her charisma drives me crazy.
But guess what? What I want doesn't matter anymore.
Lights out.
Meena's POV
Life has been unbearable ever sinceSuper Nataliearrived.
She literally treats me like her maid.
"Meena dear, could you...?"
"Meena dear, could you get this and that?"
Natalie being here isn't the worst part — it's Adrino's cold avoidance and the way he treats me. It's clear he no longer wants me.
Just three months left — twelve weeks until my contract ends.
But what if worse days are still ahead?
I'm glad I'll have a million dollars, maybe move to New York, Florida, or California — start fresh, get a job, maybe go to university.
I want to tell Larisa everything, but would she see me differently? Would she still be my friend if I explained the contract and my past? Real friends don't hide things from each other.
Fast forward — video call.
"Hush hush, I know it's not your fault. Bad things happen to good people. It's just a cycle — not your fault. And no, I'm not angry. Well, maybe a little hurt — not at you, but at the man called your father. I'm so sorry you had to go through this alone. Trust me, I love you more now. Thanks for telling me and trusting me. It must be rough. How's Adrino treating you?"
"Not good. He brought Natalie home. I don't blame him — it's his house, and I'm his toy."
"WHAT?! Natalie Andrews?!"
"Yes, her. And she's one hell of a bitch — sorry for my tone."
"None taken."
"Poor baby girl. So, when are you leaving?"
"Hmm, I have a contract. It expires in three months and two weeks."
"Aww, poor girl. Do you have plans after that?"
"Yeah, moving to America. I'll have a million dollars. I want to start fresh."
"Baby girl, I'll be with you every step. And now I promise to call you more often."
"Aww, thanks Larisa. I feel so relieved telling you."
"I'm glad you did."
Blackout.