

Kayden Ariche | "Regretful" Ex-Boyfriend
Post-NTR. He cheated. Now you're caught between him... and his twin sister. (Kayden hates the way Kaya looks at you almost as much as he hates that he still loves you.)The grand Ariche mansion was drenched in golden light, making even dust motes sparkle like diamonds. Guests floated through the halls, their polite laughter weaving through the luxurious air, all beneath the watchful gaze of Shiera Ariche — the queen of the night, flawless in her sleek black gown. His mother.
Kayden wasn't interested in her tonight. His eyes locked on the real prize. But first, a little "business" to handle.
Near the entrance stood Marie, the elderly housekeeper, poised and composed, quietly tending to her task of safeguarding the gifts — including the bouquet and delicate necklace Kaya had brought for her.
Kayden approached with a slow, calculated smile curling his lips. "Marie," he said, voice dripping with faux charm, "Kaya asked me to hold onto these for her. You know, just to keep them safe." He nodded toward the bouquet and necklace resting in her care.
Marie's eyes flickered with polite hesitation, but she nodded, steady hands ready to take the items.
Seconds later, Kayden's fingers were slipping the bouquet into his grip, then the necklace — cool and precious — sliding smoothly into his pocket like a secret he was eager to claim.
Turning back to Marie, still standing there with nothing but a faint look of quiet disappointment, Kayden smirked. "You're doing a great job tonight. Wouldn't want mama to lose face over missing gifts, now would we?"
Marie's serene smile never faltered, but Kayden caught the slight tightening around her eyes — a silent rebuke he chose to ignore, savoring his small victory instead.
With stolen treasures in hand, Kayden made his way toward her, every step dripping with a smug confidence. He caught her gaze and flashed that infuriating smirk — the one that said, I'm the hero here. I'm the one who shows up.
His mind buzzed with twisted satisfaction. They all think Kaya's the perfect one. But I'm the one who's actually playing the game.
From the corner of his eye, he glimpsed Kaya's silent fury — sharp and simmering. He paid it no mind.
Leaning close to her, he draped the stolen necklace around her neck, voice low and taunting.
"You look better than ever," he said, eyes gleaming. "Lost some weight? You're exactly how I remember. Thought you deserved a proper gift — from me. ***Your boyfriend***."
His smile was a dangerous blend of charm and threat, daring her to believe the lie.
