Chapter 1 Prologue

"Ame! Go! Run!" She heard her father shouts at her in the middle of rapid gun fires around. But there was no way she could escape without being hit by the bullets flying from different directions. They have a peaceful morning while she joins her father's training with a high-profile trainee when gun fires erupted. Suddenly, enemies swarmed the forest surrounding the training ground. It's a remote location and only a few know its existence. Enemies found them. Gunfires never cease as she was ducked to the ground, beside a pile of wood. "Father!" she tries to call him but he is busy protecting his most valuable trainee. Though the younger man is having a great deal of killing enemies they are still trapped and outnumbered. "Ame, hide!" desperation sounded in her father's voice after they found a sturdy hiding place adjacent to where she was hiding. They were caught off guard and even the other security was slaughtered in the open. The enemies came prepared. "Father..." fear consumes her but she has no time to cry. They are surrounded and it's a slim chance they will get out alive if they will not fight back. "Hide, Ame. Don't let them get you" pure desperation evident in her father's voice. While his eyes are somewhat pleading with her, which she cannot discern. She hasn't seen her father this desperate despite their tough life. They have been through a lot and he has been her sturdy ground who kept her strong. However, seeing him with such hopelessness frightened her. She could even see sadness reflecting in his eyes. Or she was just mistaken. "Ame...please, promise you will thrive. You will live" begging, he added. Staring at him, she started to get confused. He is talking nonsense like he is saying his goodbye. "Father, what are you talking about? We will live long, together. I can't be alone" trying to sound irritated, she glares at him. But he only gave him a sad smile. "Just promise me, no matter what happened, you will survive. You will live. You know what to do when the time comes" he sternly counters while demanding her. "Father!" aghast by what he was saying, she snap at him. "Promise me, Ame!" he angrily persisted, making her flabbergasted. She has no idea what her father was talking about but his desperation scares her. Inhaling deep, she concedes as she nodded. "Promise, father. I will live" though confused and reluctant, she mumbles while staring straight into his father's intense gaze. "Hide" he commanded before peeking from his spot. "Shit! Run, Ame!" He suddenly shouted before pulling his trainee by the arms and darting away from their hiding place. By instinct, her reflexes kicked in as she swiftly move away from her spot opposite where her father and his trainee were going. They just move far enough before an explosion happened, adding to the upheaval around them. A grenade was thrown, blowing up their hiding place. She jumps to the ground as the gun fires continue. She is now closer to their cottage and she will have a better chance if she could hide inside. Her father has made an underground bunk for her. While she crawls her way she looks back to find her father in open space straight at the line of fire of the enemies. Horrified, she tries to come back to help but she suddenly froze with her wide eyes. She could see him protecting his trainee who is also busy shooting and throwing his sharps when her father's body suddenly jerk upward as several bullets enters his body. He made himself a shield for the younger man who also fell to the ground after his whole weight brought him down. "Father!" terrified, she screamed. Crawling fast, she made her way to their spot amid the gunfire. "Father" she whimpers seeing him bathe in his own blood atop his trainee who looks shocked. "Father..." while crying, they slowly lay him on his back. "Ame..." his weak voice fills her ears amidst the noise around. "Master Vasili..." gulping, he tries to speak. "Eric...you should have not done that" though his voice is stern and he looks dangerously grim. Tears brim his eyes. Eric has been the head of his security and his trainer for several years now. He learns a lot from him. "I have...to...protect you... Master" he struggles to explain. "Eric..." hopelessness fills his voice as he ducks low beside Eric's head to hide his tears. He was too focused on killing enemies he could spot when he was toppled to the ground with Eric atop him. It all happens so fast that he has no time to grasp what happened. They try to stay still as they mourn their demise. Their spot is a futile one and with any wrong move, a bullet might get into their heads. "Master Vasili...please protect...my daughter. She has...no one...but me..." he speaks whilst the blood gushes out from his mouth. Still, with his head lowered on the ground, Vasili tries to contain his sniffles but they still escaped. "I will take care of your daughter, Eric. The entire Wright and Petrov will protect her. I owe you my life and I vow to claim vengeance for your death and for what happened here" unbothered by the tears in his eyes, he stares straight into Eric's eyes while he makes his promise. "You don't owe me anything...don't seek revenge for...my death. Knowing...my daughter.... will be...in good hands...is enough...for me...I will go...peacefully" with his bitter smile, he continues. "Father..." she painfully whimpers while hugging him. "You will...be safe...with Master Vasili...Ame. Honor him to protect you..." though lopsided, he gave her a reassuring smile. He is fading to darkness and with a bitter smile, he closes his eyes. "Father..." her anguish rocks her shoulder as she cries while snuggling on her father's bloody chest. Vasili becomes solemnly quiet, listening to her misery while tears stream down his face. He can't believe they lost Eric today. It's been too fast that his head was too muddled to think straight. He doesn't know how long they've been on the ground but the gun fires have slowed down compared to earlier. He spotted his other security covering their spot from approaching enemies. Inhaling deep, he gets ready again. This time, to bring Eric's daughter to safety. "We need to get out of here" she softly coaxes her. "Father..." shaking her head, she refuse to leave his side. "The enemies are closing in. We have to move or we will have the same fate as Eric. I promised to keep you safe so whether you like it or not, I will get you out of here" seriously commanding, he insists. Holding her hand, he waited for the chance. For a while, they stayed still on their spot when they heard another round of rapid gunfire. Signifying a new force has arrived. Heaving a sigh, Vasili slumped his back next to Eric's lifeless body. With the rhythm of the gun fires, he recognized whose troops arrived. Petrov team. "We are safe. You will be safe" he mutters while intensely staring at her uneven eye colors. ***😔**

Chapter 2 Chapter 1 Stray Cat

"Good morning, young Mistress Amelia. Your breakfast is ready" I just slightly grasp the butler, Manuel's, greeting as I descend the massive stairway. My thoughts are too preoccupied to notice him in his usual spot. The old man has been with me since I was brought to the enormous estate after my father's death. "Thank you, Manuel" I fondly smile before I walk to the massive dining area. As always, I took time to stare at the abundance in front of me. A feast fit for a queen. A queen. But I am far from being a queen. And most students in the University, where all heirs of affluent families are studying, have made sure to always remind me that no matter how lavish is my life, I am still a stray cat. Yes, I am a no-one. I have no clear lineage for their reference. I tell no one who I am but everyone could see my lavish life. I am just a charity case for the famous and wealthiest family in the country. A subject of their compassion. Whilst my unclear origin, they treated me like one of them. I share their family's power despite people not realizing it. I've been living alone for almost six years and I should be used to it. Though I get well with the household staff, it's still a lot of difference to have a family. Which I do not have. Regardless of the abundance around me, I felt hollow. I have no one to share even the pettiest things I did in school or the victory I won. Only Manuel would send me off to school and welcomes me home at the end of the day. It's a routine. A routine that I'm starting to get tired of. But what choice do I have? None. As I eat, I could hear myself chewing my food. The entire mansion is too quiet, like always. Only the soft clinking of my silverware would occasionally break the silence. I'm used to eating alone and though it's lonely, I try to enjoy and appreciate all the efforts of Manuel and the rest of the staff to prepare my sumptuous meal. They are awesome. Though for me it's unnecessary, the mansion is situated in a massive but secluded private area where no commoner could enter. Its heavily guarded main gate is still a kilometer away. Making the entire estate fully hidden from the main road and curious eyes. Aside from the high-resolution CCTV cameras surrounding the entire estate, several security personnel were stationed at the main gate. While roving guards are everywhere to secure the vicinity of the mansion. I'm like a precious jewel afraid to be stolen from its owner. Indeed, a modern-day princess. I've been patient and it won't be long before I will be rewarded. In less than a year, I will be finished with my medical studies. My dream is starting to come true. After my breakfast, I rushed to get my things upstairs and prepare to leave. I have an early class and surely my friends will be waiting for me. Stepping out in the garage, I look at the six limited edition, multi-million dollar vehicles to choose from. And I decided to use the newest one in my collection. The white Ferrari LaFerrari. A kilometer to the main gate is just a blink of an eye as I speed down the private road. And not long, I am among the pool of vehicles laboring the congested traffic of the city. Though I earned a lot of angry honking for my greedy spot on the road, I arrived at the university. I didn't stop until I reached my intended parking space. Yes, I have my own parking space. With my name. Luxury cars are not an unusual scene in the university. Heirs of the most wealthy and affluent families in the country are a common view inside the campus but only me has the specific spot under my name. Though it raised a lot of brows, I'm too busy to care. They all could question my existence, and they will just be wasting their time. No matter what they do, they will discover nothing about me. And with their hopelessness,  those aristocrats and their heirs would oftentimes create uproar to drag me to the ground where they all wanted me to be. The University is full of rumors about me like I am an illegitimate heir of some royalties abroad, hidden from the public eye. Some think I have a wealthy sugar daddy. Well, close but not close enough. It's been an issue among aristocratic students who have been looking down on me, which in the long run doesn't bother me anymore. "Oh, here's the queen pauper, Amelia Stepanov. How's your morning, your highness?" The instant I got out of the vehicle, Carla with her group who are chatting near my parking spot sneered while looking at me from head to toe. My avid fan early in the morning. I'm pissed seeing her heavily made-up face but I force a sweet smile for her. "I'm fine a while ago before I saw you. What brand of cake flour did you use in your face again, Carla?" I jeer back with the sweetest smile I could muster. "Why you!" triggered and furious, she glares at me. If looks could kill, I will be lying on the ground, convulsing. Even her friends are all sharply staring at me. "You missed a spot around your neck. I could send you another sack of flour if you are short of it" I added with a wink. If they could spoil my early morning, so do I. "Stray cat, bitch! One day your sugar daddy will dump you and I swear I will be the first person to kick you out of here. You are still a nobody! You have no right to be haughty around us, you are just a stray cat, loser" she angrily shrieks with all her might for other students to hear her, but I don't care. I'm used to it. Four years ago and the first time I learned of their disdain and experience their hostility is like a blazing dagger stabbed into my heart. It hurt like hell. But it's been long years have passed and my heart has hardened as a rock to mind all their insults. I learned to fight back and to get even. "Until then, I will graze this ground with my eminence. Bear with it" I smirk before turning away from the group. Aren't they tired of pestering me? I don't have time to indulge their qualms. I walk straight to the entrance of the building where I spotted Caleb and Cristy. My two closest friends. The two people who stood by my side all these years of being in the den of hyenas. Caleb Orlov, the son of the Secretary of Finance, and his mother's side of the family are very affluent with several chains of jewelry shops all over the country. Cristy Antonov is the daughter of the Health Ambassador while her father is one of the major stockholders of the university. Cape University is ranked number one among other universities in the country. We have been a solid group since freshmen and no one dared to mess with us. Well of course, aside from me. Without a clear family connection, I've been occasionally subjected to bullying. But I am Amelia Stepanov, I will never give anyone the chance to bully me. In fact, I earned the nickname 'stray cat'. Fiesty as a cat but still a stray. And just like my existence in high society where connections are significant... I am still out of place despite my obvious wealth. Amelia Stepanov lacks connection and influence like the others. I am still an outcast of society, a fake diamond despite its blinding brightness. Came lunchtime and we had our fill at the frequently visited cafe near the university. We are already about to finish our meal when the news caught my attention. "Billionaire heir Alek Vasili Wright who was rumored to become CEO of Petrov Petroleum arrives in the country. As we all remember, Wright Group of Companies has become a major investor of Petrov Petroleum. The two leading powerful families have been in collaboration for several decades now. Is the presence of the twenty-eight-year-old heir of another powerful magnate mean something to Petrov Petroleum?" the anchor spoke as the footage of the arrival was flashed on the screen. "Wright and Petrov's families are leading the business world since I can remember. But Petrov Petroleum is a very conservative company. Since its establishment, only a Petrov could strictly govern the entire management. If the rumors were right, does this mean, they are opening their doors to allies? Will they allow someone to manage the company who is not a Petrov? A lot of questions have been surfacing that only Petrov Petroleum could fulfill""We are hoping to have an answer. We will try to acquire an interview with CEO Timothy Petrov soon""In addition, the handsome bachelor was seen with the celebrity socialite Miss Sophia Saunters as they came out of the private hangar of the Petrov family""Curious eyes of the public are now focused on the handsome heir who arrives with the very beautiful and sophisticated Miss Saunters. As we all know, Alek Vasili Wright grew up in front of the public's curious eyes. Son of the famous international model and fashion designer, Alexzia Montes-Wright, Alek Vasili was known for his exceptional criterion for women. Alexzia Montes-Wright has set an unattainable standard for her sons""Does his appearance with the famous model mean something? Will the famous heir be settling down soon? Will this mean heartbreak for those who dreamed of having the elusive heart of the very handsome bachelor? A Wright heir rumored to be Petrov Petroleum's next CEO is one of the young billionaires equal to his brothers and any Petrov. Every woman's dream. His arrival in the country has raised a lot of speculation and we are hoping to have answers soon. Stay tuned for more updates, good afternoon" The report has ended but the photos of the heir's entourage flashed on the screen, which I earnestly watch. "He is perfection...like his mother""Very handsome and rich...""That model is very lucky""They looked good together""They will have perfect children..." Several murmurs reached my ears but I'm too focused on the screen where the face of the handsome man and the beautiful woman beside him is plastered. Indeed the two looked good together. "Wow, my one great love is back" I heard Cristy whisper. She too is glued to the screen. "That bitch is not that beautiful, she is just wearing very thick makeup. I don't like how she looked at the camera. As if telling everyone Mr. Alek Vasili is hers. I can't let her" she continues to softly rant while I continue to quietly watch. "I may not be as beautiful as she is...but Lia is. She pales with Amelia's beauty" she snickers, which tears my attention away from the screen. Incredulous by her ideas, I glare at her. "What?" she asks while glaring back at me. "Lia is more beautiful than her. Tell me I'm wrong, Caleb" she challenged. Not wanting to start an argument, I roll my eyes at her. She could sometimes be extra. But her triumphant smile got me curious, too late to notice the pair of earnest eyes staring at me. Caleb stared at me like he just saw me for the first time. "What?" I irritatedly ask, glaring at him. "Nothing...you are indeed very beautiful" Caleb mumbles as if realizing it for the first time. "Fuck you" I sneer, aghast by how they are making fun of me. "Yes, I agree, Lia is far more beautiful than that woman" Caleb added his agreement after a while. "Fuck you two" incredulous of my two friends, I glare at them both. What made me more exasperated is when Caleb just shrugged and smirks in response "See even Caleb agreed...you are really beautiful Amelia. Wait till Mr. Alek Vasili sees you, he will definitely throw that bitch away" Cristy seriously added while staring straight into my eyes. Trying to convince me. I have nothing to counter whenever the two are teaming up against me. And seeing how adamant she looks, I doubt she will easily let go of her crazy ideas. "I will find a way to introduce Mr. Alek Vasili Wright to you. My father has met him and is an associate of the Petrov. If the rumors are right, he will be the next CEO of Petrov Petroleum. He has the power all men have been vying for. Considering how conservative the Petrovs are, Mr. Vasili Wright must be close to them to have acquired the position no man had been allowed but a Petrov heir" she earnestly continues. Her eyes are even narrowing with whatever crosses her thoughts. "I won't allow such a great man to be with that bitchy woman, I don't like her Amelia. So you must seduce him if you have a chance. It would be an eyesore seeing her beside the most powerful man in the country once he indeed took the CEO seat" I was startled when she grabbed me by the shoulder. Her words were clenched and her face looks deadly serious. Recovering from my initial shock, I incredulously glare at her. "You are crazy, Cristy" with nothing to counter, I just shook my head in resignation. My gaze returned to the screen and continue to watch the flashing photos, exhibiting Vasili Wright's magnificence. He becomes more handsome as he ages. He looks more imposing and intimidating. Even his smile is calculated. By then, the usual question bugging me for years crept into my mind. Does he still remember? ***😏**

Chapter 3 Chapter 2 Unpleasant First Meeting

Donning tattered shorts paired with a loose black sweatshirt and sneakers, Amelia and her friends made way to the crowded aisle of the Lindt Mall. Although the three of them constantly banter about a lot of things, even petty ones, they love to spend time together during the weekends. "Lia, there's a new summer dress I've been dying to have. It's a limited edition and it's only available in three colors but only one per color. I really love the yellow one. I have to buy it before anyone does, please, let's go to the shop first" Cristy pleaded while they all entered the mall entrance. "K, let's go there first" Lia casually agreed while Caleb followed in silence. Cristy is seeming to be bouncing in glee while entering the elevator that will bring them to the fourth floor of the mall. The instant the elevator door opened, she hurriedly dragged the two towards the exclusive shop where the dresses are already on display. "Wow, there it is Lia" Cristy whispered in awe while her eyes glistened with admiration at the dress being worn by the mannequin. "You get it now, or somebody might snatch it from you" Caleb reminded the drooling girl who instantly snap from her reverie. "Miss I will get this dress, the yellow one please" she immediately spoke to the attendant while she caressed the soft cloth with the tip of her fingers. "Right away, Miss..." the store attendant responded with a smile before turning away to get the yellow dress from the display and handing it to her. Cristy's eyes sparkle with pure admiration while staring at the dress she is holding. "I can't understand why girls could this be petty. It's just another dress. What difference does it have from all the other dresses" Caleb mumbles with slight confusion and amusement at Cristy's animated expression. "You will never understand" Cristy glares at Caleb while pursing her lips to a sulk. "Come on now, let's pay so we can go" Lia spoke while smiling at Cristy whose smile is very contagious. "I want that yellow dress!" everyone tensed when a hard and bratty voice echoed inside the store. Cristy by instinct hugged the dress close to her body before turning to the voice. Seeing the entourage entering the store, they were welcomed by the glaring eyes of a woman whom they have just seen a few days ago in the news. "Give me that dress, I want that yellow one. You can choose the other two colors" the woman spoke directly at Cristy. Her demanding tone and raised brow intend to intimidate. But Cristy was not deterred, she even raise her own brow, higher than the woman. "I got this first...this is mine..." she mutters seriously. "Not for long. I want that dress" the woman insisted with a smirk which made her more annoyed. Ignoring the pompous woman, she turns toward the cashier to pay. "I'll pay for this dress now..." she announces to the cashier who looks anxious. The poor employee was nervously glancing at both of them, torn about who to believe. "You don't know who I am? Do you not value your work here?" the woman smirk and ask the cashier with a glint of warning. The cashier was dumbfounded as she stares at the woman's eyes when another group entered the shop. "Have you bought the dress? I still have a meeting" the very familiar man asks with such authority, earning everyone's attention. "Vasili, that girl stole the dress from me" the woman viciously whined to the newcomer. Cristy's eyes grew so wide from disbelief as she abruptly turn towards the man who squinted his sharp eyes towards her. "I... I didn't...steal...I got this first..." she tries to explain despite her stammering voice. "I like that dress, Vasili" Sophia whined cheekily at the man who is already staring back at her. "Then get it" he replies casually. "But that stubborn girl is about to pay for it. She will steal it away from me" Sophia pursed her lips and whined cutely. The older woman is acting like a victim but her vicious smirk did not escape Amelia's eyes. The cashier is also anxiously gaping at the guests, totally lost about what to do. She clearly recognized the imposing man with his entire entourage but the younger one was the first to ask for the dress. Wealthy people are so petty, making their job difficult. Vasili turns to look at the girl at the counter who is tightly hugging the dress. Her head is shaking in disagreement with what the woman was telling them. "Do you have any other color of that dress?" he turned to the store attendants. "We have an available color of blue and brown, Mr. Wright" the attendant responded, wise enough to know the person asking them. "Then take any other colors" he turns to Sophia. "But I want the color yellow, Vasili. I don't want any color but yellow" the woman stubbornly insisted. She even stomps her feet like a child. Vasili sighed and turn to look at Cristy who is also looking back at him. "Miss, can you just pick from the other colors available and give us the yellow one?" he spoke calmly but his words are commanding enough for Cristy to recognize. Anxiously, she gapes at the man before turning to Amelia with her pleading eyes. Amelia who has been watching the scene with her clenched jaw narrowed her eyes and turned to the other group. They saw Cristy's excitement when the attendant gave her the dress earlier and now, it is threatened to be taken away from her. "She got the dress first so she will have it" Amelia spoke with a hard tone while she walked toward Cristy. "...and you are?" aghast, Sophia sneers at her. "Amelia" she calmly replies before averting her gaze to Alek Vasili. As their gazes lock, they silently duel for dominance. "I don't care who you are, I want that dress" the woman rolled her eyes before trying to approach Cristy who defensively took a step backward. "I also don't care what you want, woman" Amelia coldly counters, making Sophia Saunters pause midstep. "Pack the dress, we will pay for it...now" she seriously added. The tension inside the shop increased tremendously after Amelia intervened. Even Alek Vasili did not counter her. "Vasili, do something!" Sophia irritatedly exclaims, in time the panting and nervous store manager approached and arrives. "Good day Mr. Wright" despite his obvious nervousness, the store manager politely greeted him. "Give the dress to Miss Saunters and negotiate a compromise with the other customer" Vasili immediately orders the manager without averting his gaze away from Amelia. "Yes, Mr. Wright" the manager bowed before turning to Cristy and smiling. "Miss, we still have two available colors for that dress and you can choose any other dress, shoes, bag, or any accessories for free...that's on the house" the manager carefully explain with a learned smile. Whilst praying hard the girl would concede to the man's entourage for lesser trouble. Cristy gaped at the manager before staring at the dress she was clutching with a sad and hopeless smile. "She will not take anything from this shop except for the dress she is holding. Just because they are more powerful as they seemed to be, they will be treated like they are above everyone. The price of the dress will just be the same regardless of whoever bought it. I will not allow this to be a chance to belittle someone you deemed to be lacking in your eyes" Amelia coldly mutters to the manager before turning to look at the woman and lastly to Alek Vasili Wright. Meeting her cold calmness, he stares back at her with the same animosity. Caleb is already too anxious to say something moreover intervene. He fully knew who the man Amelia has been challenging. He is not an easy person to mess with. "I have made a compromise and I expect that you are wise enough to take it" with a cold tone, Vasili Wright spoke directly to Amelia. "Well maybe, I'm not that wise enough, you expected too much from me...SIR...so I will be taking the dress for my friend. Just console your minx of a girlfriend before she throws a fit like a spoiled brat. Since she won't be getting this dress" sarcastically, she smiles. If she is fueling a raging fire, then be it. But she will not surrender the dress. With what she uttered, everyone's eyes grew wide in disbelief and panic. However, she remains unaffected. Sophia Saunters, triggered by her outright defiance, glares at her. "Who do you think you are, girl?!" she angrily exclaims, facing Amelia who remains calm under her intimidation. "I'm someone you don't want to mess with..." she sweetly smiles before turning to the man who clucked his tongue in annoyance. "Lia..." Caleb moves closer to whisper his warning near her ear. His arms rounded her slim waist, aiming to stop and protect her. For everyone's eye, he is back hugging her. But Amelia's attention is not on her friends but on the man who is earnestly looking at her. The clenching of his jaw did not escape her eyes and as they silently duel, tension immensely increased. "Amelia, stop it. That's Mr. Alek Vasili Wright. It's okay, I will give the dress to his girlfriend. Let's just leave" Cristy suddenly conceded upon seeing how triggered Amelia has become. "No! You dragged me here and you kept me awake late last night because of that dress, I won't waste my time and will buy that dress for you" she insisted while grabbing the dress from Cristy. Fuming with anger, she places it on the counter together with her black card. Staring at the black card next to the dress, the cashier was torn between the two parties. Everyone knew the vast influence the Wright has. And if the rumor is correct, Alek Vasili Wright will be untouchable and must be feared as the incoming CEO of Petrov Petroleum. A Mafia-owned company. Not just an ordinary organization of power and influence. With immeasurable power, Petrov Mafia has been indestructible for several decades now. Messing with any of them is tantamount to death. But the girl is obviously not some ordinary student too. No ordinary student has a black card in her name. Even Sophia Saunters' eyes reflect disbelief while Vasili remains stoic. He saw the card on the counter and he become more curious. The girl instantly becomes a mystery not only to everyone but also to the very famous heir of the Wright empire. ***🙂🙄🙂**

Chapter 4 Chapter 3 Black Card

Sophia was in a daze while staring at the black card. She had been dreaming to own one but failed all the time. Knowing a mere student owns one made her loathe her more. "A mere student having a Black Card, interesting" she snickers. "Which you don't have, I pressume" spitting back, Amelia mockingly smiles. "You, impertinent girl!" Sophia angrily raves. Scoffing, she just watch the woman throw a fit. "I don't think pointing out a fact is impertinence. What's more interesting is a full grown woman throwing a tantrum like one year old child. You should watch your unbefitting action" she spoke after a while of enjoying Sophia's tantrum but her words riled the woman even more. "You...bitch""Enough!" The woman is about to attack her when a thunderous voice rumbled. Flinching from the frightening sound, everyone froze on their feet. "You tame your cat's tantrum. A preschooler has a better disposition than her" turning to Mr. Wright, Amelia mutters with disgust. Unaffected by his anger. "Process the payment so we could leave"  sternly, she turns to the cashier and gestures for her to do her bidding. Nervous, the cashier turns to look at her manager but he too is indecisive. Without a choice, she turn to look at Mr. Wright but she got nothing when he didn't spare her a glance. Hesitantly, she turns to Amelia who gestures to her to continue, which she reluctantly does. Cautiously, she scans the barcode and processes the payment for the dress.  Relief washed over her when no one from the other camp stopped her until she finishes the whole transaction. The cashier handed the bag to Cristy while she continue to anxiously glance at the intimidating man's side. Unexpectedly, he was calm while watching the whole payment process. "Let's go" Amelia got the bag from Cristy and grab her hand before dragging her out with Caleb tailing behind. Eerie silence dominated the shop after the students left. But despite their departure, the tension did not dissipate. Vasili's grim disposition is frightening that even Sophia is afraid to whine about the dress she lose over the girl. "Who is that student?" Vasili mutters with gritted teeth. With his dangerously cold tone, he narrows his eyes to the leaving figures. "Mr. Wright...she is...ahm..." the man stammered while looking lost of what to say. "I want to know about that girl. Her parents, guardian, anyone supporting her...everything" he issued his order with a clenched jaw. The girl's haughtiness is something that piqued his nerves but the black card she owns snap all his reserves. "Yes sir""Vasili take it easy, she is just a girl" the other man interrupted. "No one has ever insulted me the way that girl did. I want her full background, Larry. She must know why she should not mess with Alek Vasili Wright" he dangerously whispers, making everyone cringe with fear. His eyes narrows at the path the three figures have already disappeared. "Lia... Lia slowdown" trying to calm her friend, she pleaded. Abruptly, Lia comes to a halt. "Lia..." Cristy cautiously mumbles. "He is such an ass" she grimly mutters with a clenched jaw. "Lia, he is Mr. Vasili Wright, we will be doomed for sure" Caleb softly reminded, making her turn to him. "I don't care, he is an ass" she furiously persisted. Two pairs of eyes intently stare at her, gauging her mood. Lia is a great person but her hot temperament could sometimes put her in trouble. "It's okay now Lia, I got the dress, calm down" Cristy continues to pacify her protective friend. "Even if he is the wealthiest man in the world, he should not act like a spoiled brat like his girlfriend" she counters with obvious annoyance in her tone. She looks riled and ready to fight. "They are being entitled. Don't mind them. Let's not ruin our weekend" Caleb interjected. "Caleb is right. The day is just starting. Let's enjoy this weekend, we deserve this" Cristy readily agreed while she link her arm to Lia. "Just hope we won't cross paths with those spoiled oldies" calmer than earlier, a smile faintly curving her lips. "We will try not to" Caleb chuckles before rounding his arm around Lia's shoulder. "I plan to introduce you to him but this happens. How could you seduce him now" pouting, Cristy whispers in frustration. Hearing what she's been mumbling, the two incredulously glares at her. "You are still worried about that?" Lia raves in aghast. "Mr. Wright is so handsome, he looks like his father and her gorgeous mother. How could I allow him to be with that brat? You should have him" Cristy announce stubbornly. Appalled by the other girl, the two face palmed themselves. "Well, it seems to be a hopeless case now. We started on the wrong foot and there's no way I will seduce that arrogant man" unconcerned, she glares at her friend. "Give it time. He might come around" Cristy persisted but only earned a rolling of Lia's eyes. "Not a chance" she counter, dismissing the idea. Though pouting from her cold shoulder, Cristy leans her head on her shoulder as they walk again. Strolling leisurely, they passed by a group of formally attired men. And to their aghast, the one they vowed not to cross path again is among them. Lia met the cold eyes staring at her, which she indulged. She gave the man the same coldness reflecting in his eyes. Both were engrossed with the duel, unconcerned about the confusion they created. "Mr. Vasili Wright?" the man talking was confused when he noticed his inattention to the report. Ignored, the man anxiously turns to Alek's corporate assistant for help. "Vasili" Larry tries to get his attention, knowing fully well what stole it from an important report. He, too, is looking at the group of students they have encountered earlier. "Let's have our lunch first, we'll continue later" Vasili unceremoniously announced before turning away. Leaving the other men perplexed by his sudden change of mood. Larry followed his back with his calm gaze before turning to the outspoken girl from the shop. Their eyes met but he was met with calm coldness before looking away. She walk with her friends like the tension did not happen. Heaving a sigh, he follows Vasili with the rest of his secretaries. The tension around the man has been intimidating everyone. "I want her background as soon as possible Larry. I want them barred to be in one place with me" Vasili growled his command the moment Larry joins his entourage. "Vasili, that would be too much" he mutters in disbelief. He cannot deny the fury in the man's expression but he is being unreasonable. "There's no too much. I want her background. I want to wipe away the arrogance on her face once I've cut ties to whoever is her parents or guardian" abruptly stopping, he faces to glare at Larry. But the latter did not falter. "You don't know what you are doing Vasili. Calm down and rethink your actions. She is just a student. She did nothing to deserve what you intend to do. Don't be unreasonable, you might regret it" Larry replied with the same hardness in his tone. Larry is one of the few people who can beat him to come to his senses as his best friend and closest associate. With what he heard, he glares at Larry to impose his command. But Larry remains undeterred by his anger. As their gazes locks to a silent duel, Vasili clenched his jaw before turning away. He was aware of his unreasonable thoughts but he won't let anyone even Larry know it. He is pissed and triggered by a mere student. He is angry for something he is not ready to acknowledge. ***😊**

Chapter 5 Chapter 4 Triggered

"Welcome home young mistress Amelia" Manuel greeted her and got her sweet smile. "Thank you, Manuel" she smiles and politely thanks the man. "How's your day young mistress?" he gently ask, staring at her tired face. He watch her drag her steps until she reach the couch and slumped her whole body on it. "The usual, I just met a petty old man at the mall earlier, he is such an ass...but all in all I had a great day" she softly whines but becomes annoyed at the thought of the man at the mall. Amused, a smile grazed his lips while watching the emotions crossing her beautiful face. It's very unusual for her to be irritated like what he is seeing now. So maybe the man she met really exhausted her patience. "Have some refreshment first, young mistress. Take some rest. Dinner will be served later" he gestured to the servant to serve the fresh strawberry shake. "Thanks, Manuel, this is what I really need...hmmm" she smiles sweetly while taking a sip of the very cold shake, her favorite. Her contented moan made Manuel and the servant smile while watching her. They left her to enjoy her drink alone. She is enjoying the silence when she got a call from Caleb asking her to hang out in the bar. Lazily, she went upstairs to prepare. "Manuel, I'll be going out again, I will just hang out with my friends. I won't make trouble and I won't be long" she told the man standing beside the table. She just finished her sumptuous dinner. "Of course, young mistress, just be careful and call me if you needed assistance" he smiles softly. The young mistress has been respectful of anyone inside the mansion. She won't leave without informing the butler. She has been the sole master of the estate but she treats every servant as family. After sending her to her car, the limited-edition vehicle sped away amid the silence of the night. The butler follows the speeding car with his gentle gaze. The road has been long empty but he remains on his spot. He is still watching the light from the vehicle afar when he received an expected call. "Hello sir" he picks up the call and listened to the other line. "The young mistress is doing great sir and she really do well in school," he told the other line with a gentle smile. The thought of the young mistress always put a smile on his face. "She is out tonight but I can assure you, sir, the young mistress is very responsible even with the freedom we are giving her. The Master doesn't have to worry about the young mistress, she is always safe, sir" he continued to assure the other line while he slowly walked towards the mansion. "Have a great night, sir, don't worry about the young mistress, she is a great girl. Very obedient and respectful. The Master will have nothing to worry about with her" he continued until the call ended. On the other hand, Amelia parked her car at the usual bar they would frequent during free time. The bar is exclusive to members, mainly from affluent families and businessmen. Caleb and Cristy were already at their usual table when she arrives. Her sweet smile carved her lips the moment she saw Cristy messing with Caleb again. Cristy is very playful with Caleb but very bitchy with other guys who are trying to hook up with her. She will always use him as a boyfriend shield. "Hello, Lia" Cristy greeted, obviously a little tipsy from her mixed drinks. "You looked awful Cris, wipe that stupid grin from your face" she replies instead while taking a seat. She saw her favorite drink on the table, obviously ordered by Caleb for her. "Thank you for ordering for me" she leans her head on Caleb's shoulder. In response, he rounded his arms around her shoulder and gave her a squeeze. "Sweet..." grinning, Cristy teased them while consuming her drink in large gulps. "Slowdown Cris, the night is still young" she reminded the other girl. "Easy Cris" Caleb also hold her elbow to stop her, which earned both of them a sweet smile from the tipsy girl. "I'm fine...I got this" she got herself an idiotic grin, which made the two shake their heads. As the night deepened Cristy and Amelia become tipsy and super clingy towards Caleb. They are academically focused students but they sure know how to have some fun. With a few glasses of mixed drinks, Lia's inhibitions vanished in thin air. She sat on Caleb's lap and buried her face in his neck. On usual days, Cristy and Caleb love to banter but Lia is the closest to him. Cristy cannot do the things Lia was doing to Caleb despite her intoxication with alcohol. "I don't have any plans to have a girlfriend soon, but you will send girls away from me, Lia. You are biting my neck" though whining at her playfulness, he was far from annoyed. He was used to Amelia's playful ministrations. "I don't want girls near you but me and Cristy. Why should you look far, Cristy is a perfect girlfriend" Lia mumbles as she leans closer to his face. Their faces were almost plastered together. "Don't you dare start with that foolishness again, Amelia" using her full name, Cristy glares at her. "Duh... You two are just stubborn" rolling her eyeballs, she slumped back onto Caleb. Every time they have a drink, Lia would always tease them together, which they would just dismiss. After tonight and they, all become sober, no one would bring up the topic again, even Amelia. They are having so much fun when they noticed the cold gaze of a very familiar man across their table. Caleb suddenly becomes sober seeing the piercing sharp gaze on him. With the man's intimidating presence, the three regained their focus. All the alcohol in their system seems to have dissipated in an instant. "Why Mr. Vasili Wright is everywhere? He is so creepy" Cristy leaned closer to whisper. "Let him be, we are not doing anything to him" Amelia whispers, ignoring the situation. Even if they tried to ignore the intimidating man across them, they cannot escape his presence. "He is like a magnet, wherever we are, he is also there. Is he really that pissed that he kept on appearing in front of us?" Cristy whispers again. "We are moving in the same circle, it's not impossible to bump into each other" Caleb reasonably explains in a soft voice. "But not these often...it's creepy" she mumbles before sipping her drink. "I will just use the restroom" Amelia spoke, trying to stand up from Caleb's lap. "You need help? I can accompany you" standing up to hold Lia still on her feet, he loosely hugs her. "Nah...I'm fine. All the alcohol in my system vanished with the petty man's presence" she playfully whispers while plastered near his ear. "I'll be quick" she added before moving away from Caleb and leaving. She went inside the empty restroom and relieved herself. She felt a little dizzy but still quite clearheaded. "Enjoying nightlife while spending your parents' money, a typical rich kid" a hard tone interrupted her thoughts while washing her hands. Looking up at the mirror, she saw the reflection of the man leaning against the door with such contempt and sarcasm on his face. "Nice to see you Mr. Vasili Wright" she casually greeted, choosing to ignore his snide remarks. "For a very young girl like you owning a black card and all luxuries laid on your feet is quite a luck or a birthright, don't you think Miss Amelia? Do your parents know what you've been doing with their money?" sarcastically, he continues without averting his intent gaze. His statement made her raise a brow. She meets his coldness with mockery. "...Or it's not the parents who are providing you with everything...is it a sugar daddy then?" he continues after getting no response from her. The clenching of his jaw did not escape Lia's eyes and she was quite perplexed by the grimness reflecting on his face. Like she committed something unforgivable. "Mr. Wright... whatever I do with my life is none of your business. I'm confused why you seem to be so interested in my personal life. Care to tell me? Did I severely hurt your pride that you cannot move on from it or do you have other motives aside from that?" she smirked and gave him a challenging look. "So brazen and cocky, aren't we Miss Amelia?" he mutters with his dangerous tone. "This is the girl's restroom if you haven't noticed, Mr. Wright. You dare come here just to mock me. What do you want?" snickering, she faces him. "I don't want an eyesore around me" he coldly mutters. "I'm all alone and peaceful here Mr. Wright. I'm not causing trouble but you seemed to be provoking me. So what do you want? Tell it straight and don't bombard me with your insignificant tirade" leaning on the counter, she put her hands inside her pants' pockets. "Do you think you can just escape me after you have insulted me in front of my men and my guest? You don't know who you've messed with Miss Amelia. You should know that I'm a man who doesn't take insult lightly" he angrily responded. Scoffing at the man's pettiness, she rolls her eyes. She is openly challenging him, riling him. "Wait till I know who's behind your luxurious life. Enjoy it. You won't know, this might be the last few days you will have everything you have. I'll strip away all the lavishness in your life. I will erase the arrogance you wear. Do you think you can just shrug me off? Think twice, you are dealing with a Wright. I can make you as poor as a rat in just a snap of my fingers" he continues to threaten her. She is fully aware the man is very capable of his words but she remains undeterred. She even dared to sneer while she walk towards the door. "Go ahead Mr. Wright, I will be looking forward to it. I can't wait to watch as you unveil your great surprise" with her sweet smile, she snickers before passing him by the door. Left fuming with anger, he follows her with his dark gaze. He was immensely triggered by her arrogance but her last words did not sit well with his guts. ***🙄**