Chapter1:

[Savvy, I can't come today.] Christian sent me a message, [I’ll make it up for you. Btw, happy anniversary.]

I looked at the message through my phone’s screen and my eyes were almost wet.

My boyfriend, whom I have loved for five years, couldn't even come for five minutes on our anniversary.

I put the phone aside and focused on my work but I couldn't continue it for more than thirty minutes before my phone started vibrating.

When I went to check things, I wasn't even shocked anymore.

The renowned actress, Kaylee Hilton, posted deliberately a photo on her Twitter account with Christian,

@Your_love_Kay

[Thank you, #Mrnationalcrush for your sweet time!! :3]

I saw that in the Photo Christian had a bright smile on his face as they were in a luxury hotel. Besides them, bottles of liquor and wine were visible.

As Christian and Kaylee were elites among the country, her post went viral.

As usual, they were cheered as a “heavenly-made” match and the comments were begging for this godly-matched couple to be together ditching Christian’s “good-for-nothing-but-poor” girlfriend.

I shook my head as if I wanted to shake off the thoughts and went to the washroom for some fresh air but still couldn't escape.

“Have you seen Kaylee’s post?” I could overheard two colleagues gossiping.

“Yes, they are a good match. But I feel nowadays, Kaylee’s claiming her shares on Christian.”

"I know, right? They're a good match! I can’t believe they haven't made it public yet!” The next one sequaled.

I laughed at myself with the bitter taste of betrayal. I almost rushed back.

I checked Christian’s previous message again.

Maybe making-up is easier than spending some quality time.

I looked at the dark sky and felt it was as lonely as me even though it had a lot of stars.

The dagger Christian threw on my chest was still nibbling and going deeper in my heart.

I can feel how badly it was bleeding.

…..

It was late, when I was finally done and checked my phone,

[Savvy, don't wait for me. I need to check some weapons before coming.]

“Weapon? Huh!” I leaned my head back on the seat, “Of course a mafia like him has a lot to do.”

He sent me the message at 4.30 PM but I didn't check my phone earlier.

[Alright.] I sent the reply, closed the phone and let out a long sigh.

After a long day, when I flopped on the bed, tiredness gushed me.

“I shouldn't have given much thought to Christian’s promise.” I mumbled.

I closed my eyes, I truly looked forward to today's date. Maybe we could watch a theatre together like when we were still in the university.

But I guessed he forgot, he always did.

Christian was my boyfriend for five years. We started dating when we were still in the second year in the university. Even though his family was a mafia clan feared by the whole nation, his modest character, gentle smile and friendly manners were some extra points to his extremely beautiful features.

I loved this man more than I thought I could. I felt proud to stand beside this “can-be-a-perfect-role-model” person.

but we kept it a secret until after we graduated. When the news finally broke, it sent shockwaves throughout the entire nation.

Because Christian was no ordinary topper rather he was the sole heir of the Ross Clan, the future Mafia King.

Yes, Christian was like a prince, even the government was fearful of their clan.

But how could his girlfriend be plain vanilla like me, Savanna Franco?

Before our relationship went viral, I had never been in the circle of elites.

Christian had been friends with two people. One was Andrew, the heir of the Calsclair family, the most famous real estate businessman. The other was Kaylee, the only girl of Hilton family, another mafia clan and genuine business partner of Ross.

The three of them had been close since elementary school.

Given their backgrounds, the general expectation was that only Kaylee could be the ideal fiancee of Christian.

So when he announced he was dating me instead, my DMs exploded. Most of them were hate and threats.

Fortunately, The-three-close-friend always showed their support for me. Christian often took me to meet up with Andrew and Kaylee, later the rumours were gone. But when they posted a picture together without me in the frame, the fans embarked on social media.

Like her recent post just two minutes ago from her Twitter, @your_love_Kay:

[Sudden things are the best! Thanks @Christian_Ross!

Andrew @Call_me_Andy! Next time you won't be out of the hook.

And Savanna @Savvy_if_U_know, I owe you for lending Christian today! ;)

Beneath the text, it was a picture of starry night, a decorated lounge and Christian laughing soundly with some foreigners.

Another photo was posted and it was mentioned as “BUSINESS PARTY!!”

In this picture, Christian was laughing too.

I have never seen him laughing that much before.

He was always very serious, with a cold charisma. Even when Andrew cracked jokes, he smiled faintly and jabbed his shoulder.

But never a hearty laugh.

My eyes eventually drifted on the comment sections:

[@Kayian_lover:

"I swear they’re soulmates. Why aren’t they dating already?!"]

[@Givemetea:

"Christian is so sweet Kaylee, but I feel bad for “SHABBY"]

The deliberate attempt made me laugh.

[@Shippingismyfood:

"Savanna got the gem, Kaylee is cool tho! But honestly, it’s hard not to ship."]

Tears gathered in my eyes and the next moment, I was sobbing. I put aside my phone. My heart couldn't take it anymore.

This wasn’t the first time Christian left me behind for Kaylee. I should’ve known the consequences and shouldn't fall for the gentle guy back then.

I took a deep breath and pulled myself together.

Then, I called Christian.

He answered quickly. “What's wrong, Savvy?”

his voice is as cold as usual.

In the background, I could clearly hear the sounds of lively chatter.

“Where are you?” I asked, I tried my utmost to sound calm.

“I’m at a business meeting. Why?” He seemed to have moved to a quieter place. “Savvy, are you sad?” Christian asked, never sounded anxious for me as he always became for Kaylee.

The fact that I couldn't guess anymore what was going on in his mind.

I thought of Andrew’s warning before, maybe it was true. Maybe I was really Christian plaything…he would leave if he found his feelings for Kaylee.

No! Before that, I would clear out everything.

I took another deep breath, finally told the sentences which had been ticking like a bomb in my mind, “Christian, let’s break up.”

A faint sound of noise still audible on Christian’s side. He paused for a long time before finally losing his control.

"Savvy, can't you stop starting it again?" His voice was harsh and had a hint of annoyance.

“Starting it again? Heh!” I tittered ironically, “Christ, do you still remember that I'm your girlfriend.”

“You broke the promise..now you are disappointed.” My laughter grew harder, “You never fail to entertain me.”

“Savvy, you are really out of your mind today.” He grunted, “Why are you being so petty?”

I felt a pang in my heart and snapped, "I know where you are right now and how your weapon looks like! Nowadays social media can do anything, you know."

“ Savvy, we are really having a meeting here.” He almost chewed his words.

“It's okay.” My voice was too nonchalant for him to recognise, “Mr Mafia King, in future if you want to hide anything don't let your little Kay share any photos casually.”

With that, I hung up and switched off my phone.

All of a sudden, I was feeling nauseous even staying in the room. This villa and this room were decorated by us back then, now they were no more than a concrete wall. As I opened the closet, my gaze fell on the small box. This watch was a limited edition and I saved my money for a long time to give it to Christian today. The blue leather belt with the golden frame was his favourite but it was no use.

I tossed the box into the trash bin and quickly packed my belongings. I no longer crave for this villa, even though it was luxurious and had everything. It lacked love. I was determined to leave. After all, it was Christian’s and I should have disappeared.

It took me a while to pack. When I loaded my things into the taxi and headed to my small apartment downtown, I looked back on the last to the villa …..

I had been staying there for three years after completing my graduation. It was a gift I gave myself when I started working as an editor in the Wish Limited.

But Christian was the one to force me to leave with him because he always wanted to glue us together. As I never had a strong argument against him, I got along with his wishes and had been living with him.

The breeze of regrets now pierced my heart harder.

“I shouldn't have agreed back then.” I mumbled with a loud sigh, “Maybe, I can be happier now.”

It felt so ironic how Christian almost forced me to agree to live with him. But when we moved together he was always busy with Kaylee either be it business or her shopping. Now, I truly wanted to question the emotional-fool-myself , “What was the point of living together back then?”

As I entered my apartment, I dropped the luggage and headed to my bed. Don't know due to exhaustion or disappointment, soon I collapsed into sleep.

I recall how we were so intimate with our body yet no connection between hearts.

When the alarm rung louder in the morning, I reached for my phone habitually.

Christian message was the first thing I noticed.

[Savvy, don't be jealous..I saw Kay’s post. It was a last-minute arrangement as she really doesn't understand weapons that much.]

[Stop being childish. Come home when you’re done throwing a tantrum.]

Throwing a tantrum? Good!

He finally destroyed my morning too.

I tossed my phone onto the bed and went to the kitchen. Only the cold water could calm me down.

The word "childish" kept echoing in my mind, igniting small bursts of anger from within me.

Was I really that childish?

Didn't know how many times he had to ‘rescue’ his Kay as she didn't know much about weapon's and that happened to the same day of our dates.

Even when Kaylee demanded his company when she was afraid after watching a horror movie, Christian didn't refuse. Kaylee, the terrific person, could murder with an angelic smile, was afraid of ghosts.

What a great joke!

Jesus!

Besides, she never stayed alone at the residence. The tight security and maids were always around her, even a fly couldn't berge in, let alone ghosts.

Nevertheless, Christian chided, “She is little and needs me.”

I was so shocked and argued with him.

But the same lines repeated again, “There’s nothing between us,”

He let out a long sigh, deliberately wanted to avoid me and the hint of irritation was clear from his voice, “I’ve told you this before.”

Christian again sounded cold, “But if you don't believe me, just think whatever you want.”

With that, he walked out of the villa. Took his own car keys and drove to wherever Lilith was on his own dismissing his chauffeur's offer, every time.

And after every fight, he would take me to romantic dates and spend time with me. He tried to make me happy with gifts and sweet talk.

We'd reconcile, our relationship saved on the surface. But the problem was never solved. It was to the point where I couldn't even remember our conversation without mentioning Kaylee in between.

Did he think I was too native to use me like this?

Yes, I was easy to please—I admit that. But It was only because I wanted to be blinded by his love.

Not this time, though. I finally needed to stop.

In Christian’s mind, Kaylee had all the importance and even more than mine. I couldn't ignore it anymore.

It's better for me to end this one for all. This way, at least my dignity could be restored.

I sighed and squinted my nose before my eyes fell on something strange.

My eyes fall on the message from Christian [Have you awakened yet? Let's meet in the evening.]

“Who wants to meet you?’” I shrugged.

The sky had already turned dark, since the day was getting warmer, the jasmine on my desk was growing well too.

When I finished working, I already understood from other's side glances that Christian was in the lobby. After all, his presence was no joke.

I wrinkled my nose slightly. This man– could he have a little self-respect? Lottering with another girl last night and today here to pick up another.

Tsk! Tsk! But this time, I wouldn't fall for any ‘makeup’ dates.

I glanced around and was surprised that no one was clicking photos and roaming around him; rather , it was only whispering and gossiping among colleagues.

I shrugged before taking a few steps of stairs before reaching in front of him. I crossed my arms and raised an eyebrow. “What?”

Cyrus frowned slightly, and was not ready for my actions.

“Come with me,” he murmured.

He opened the car door like a personal driver and waited for me to enter inside.

I tittered, if I didn't know his background and others were not afraid of his ruthlessness, this work could have catered him.

“Andy invited us to play as he secured a big deal,” he said with his usual calmness.

“So?” I tilted my head.

“Hop in.” He frowned.

“When did I agree to go?” Could you not be so shameless!

“Savvy” His voice threatened.

Yet, I didn't care anymore and started to walk.

If it was before I laughed and hugged his neck. I felt proud to be served by the epitome of future Ross heir.

But now? Now, I no longer cared. Not being his girlfriend, not hiding him from others.

“Savvy!”

Christian was still following me.

I turned my head back and frowned harder, “Christian, stop dwelling. Get lost!”

Beep!

“Christian!” I’m really frustrated.

Suddenly he stopped the car in front of me and the loud sound irritated my already-frustrated mind.

Just as I was about to say something…

“Hey! Isn’t that Christian’s car?!”

It was the fangirls again. Not now!

“Drive!” I hurriedly jumped into the car, slamming the door harder.

“You’ll go with me now?” He sounded amused.

I narrowed my eyes at him, “Just drive!”

He chuckled softly before driving faster.

“The mint scent,” I mumbled, “It's not yours.”

Somehow, he could hear my mumbling.

“Kay was here before, maybe it's her scent.” He concluded.

Kay! Again…can I really be the only one in his life? Nope! It was always Kay that came first like the alphabet series.

Christian didn't like the smell of mint but for her he could bear with anything.

Suppressing a scoff, I shot a sideways glare at him, “ I guess you like mint now.”

“Hm.” he says briefly.

What was that supposed to mean? He liked mint or Kaylee. Maybe both!

The ride was silent. The only time we talked was when Christian chose a white dress for me. I didn't like wearing fancy things but did he even care?

We were led to a reserved VIP room on the second floor. As the staff opened the door, Andrew and Kaylee were sitting inside.

“Finally came.” Andrew beamed.

Kaylee smiled and held Christian, “Was there traffic?”

I smiled a little and let her have her way on Christian. I didn't care anymore.

“Sorry, I couldn't prepare anything at the last minute.” I looked at Andrew apologetically, “Anyway, congratulations.”

Andrew was one of the most successful second generation heirs. On the surface, he was only a CEO but he had more secrets than anyone. As meticulous as he was, no one found anything about him.

I only got to know him because of Christian bringing me over in their gatherings.

"Don’t worry. He already secured a hefty sum of cash.” Christian laughed.

“Hey,” Patrick grinned, feigning his sulk, “I always like Savvy’s gifts.”

Lies. I wanted to laugh.

He never used any of my gifts. He always carried the jade lighter Kaylee gave him even though it was no use and even the piggy keychain from Christian. They often made fun of this.

Even Kaylee didn't use any of my gifts either.

Finally I grasped that they never truly approved me. I was always unwanted to them like my gift. As they were giving me a face for Christian’s sake, for the same reason, my gift could only get an occasional appearance on their social media.

“Hey, don't eye on what’s mine!” Cyrus’s voice rose slightly, “Savvy won't give you anything anymore.”

“Heartless.” Andrew bickered.

And there they went. Back then, I enjoyed their bickering but now it only caused headaches.

“Since we’re late, let’s not wait anymore,” I said, settling into my seat, eager to go home already.

A heavy silence settled over the table. I didn't even bother about their expressions.

“Alrighty! Let’s eat!” Andrew waved at the waiters.

Soon, the table was filled with extravagant dishes and their chatting went on. I occasionally hummed and focused on my fill.

As the time went on, Christian was removing chicken skin for Kaylee. Christian hated doing chores for others. Even when we were on a date, I was in charge of doing these trivials. He never let his “MAFIA KING” tag be savoured.

Yet he could do anything for Kaylee.

Unknowingly, I frowned. The effort! Really surprising…

It only made me look foolish.

Andrew noticed everything before poking Christian's shoulder, “Don't just focus on your best friend. Your girlfriend’s plate is empty too.”

Only then Christian recalled I was also here and looked at me in a daze. His eyes widened for a while before going back to the same position.

He paused and looked down at the chicken skin on his hand with an unreadable expression on his face, “I…”

“Looks like this Mafia leader likes his best friend too much.” I tittered as I took the tissue.

“Savvy…” Christian almost gulped down his voice.