Second Chance for My Broke CEO

Nathalie's point of view

Is it all worth it? To do what makes me happy despite the fact that my life is already tied up with someone I haven’t even met... For several times, I had to ask myself about it.

I used to dream of having a great life which includes the freedom and career that I will be proud of. I have dreamed of having a life without the need to please anyone, without having the fear to fail.

I used to dream of having a normal life wherein people aren’t befriending me just because of my family’s worth.

I’ve been dreaming of being someone else. What if I was not born as Risha Nathalie Saavedra? However, I came to realize that it didn’t make any sense at all.

My parents have opened my eyes at my young age. They made me aware about my purpose in our business and that is to be a wife of someone whom I barely know. I didn’t mind it at first as my only goal is to please them reason why I wanted to do everything they would say.

“I already talked to them and they liked my proposal,” Daddy brought up, one evening during our family dinner at home. “I am confident that our company will grow fast once Nathalie and Evan Zendejas gets married!”

My father, Frank Saavedra, is truly happy as he explained the details of his meeting with the Zendejas family. He totally likes the idea of merging businesses, which is why he’s doing his best to be part of it. He looked at me with a wide smile on his face.

I only smiled back.

“That’s wonderful!” My mom, Michelle Saavedra, exclaimed in glee. “I’ll make sure to talk to Evan’s mother so we can set up a dinner date for you two.” she said while looking at me.

“Nathalie, I hope you can clear your schedules for that dinner date.” Dad said with a pleading tone.

“Ofcourse, Dad...” I nodded. He’s my father. I don’t see any reason to disobey him.

I wanted to please them and this is my purposes. I won’t do anything against their will for I know they won’t do anything that would harm me. I always live in comfort and money, thanks to them. At my young age, I have all the luxuries in this world. My parents gave me a life without any suffering. I am grateful for the life they have given me and in return, I want to fulfill their dreams.

I was only trying to be fair. I didn’t have any issue with following their rules. I didn’t see anything wrong with it as long as it will make them happy. However, deep within my heart I knew that I wanted to have a freedom. I wanted to live a normal life without any rules and following requests. I wanted to be just someone who can decide for my own life.

How I wish it is easy to escape.

No... It’s never easy. I am Risha Nathalie Saavedra, the only daughter of Frank and Michelle Saavedra. Thus, I should fulfill their dreams.

_______________

“No fucking way, Nathalie! Are you serious? Fixed marriage? With whom?” Chandria was really surprised that she had to stop walking when I told her everything.

We were walking at the park near my house. The sky is blue and the cold wind blew through my curly hair. The sun is about to set in a few minutes and I know I need to go home soon as my mom would scold me if I don’t.

“Yes, I am serious. He’s a business tycoon as far as I know. Evan Zendejas,” I replied.

My best friend stared at me with her squinted eyes. She didn’t like the idea, I am sure of it. I chuckled as I really like her reaction. Well, given this modern generation, who would still want to marry for convenience, right?

“Wow! You agreed to it? Are you out of your mind?” Now her tone is more like upset.

I only nodded. I looked up at the sky and closed my eyes. I felt the cold wind blowing through my hair again. I breathed in and let out a heavy sigh.

“Are you worried? I think it’s going to be just fine...” I uttered.

“You’re really out of your mind! I can’t believe you just agreed to your parents’ plan. Have you ever realized that you’d lose your freedom all because you want to be a good daughter? It doesn’t even make sense!” she added.

I laughed and glanced back at her. She’s too concerned and I love her for being like this but I know it’s all set and done. My feeling has nothing to do with our business. This is the least thing I can do to help my parents.

I wanted to have a freedom, that's for sure. But if fighting for it will hurt my parents then I won’t even give it a try. I don’t want to break their plans and destroy their dreams.

“Zendejas, right? I’ll check him on the internet. What if he’s ugly, right? My goodness, Nathalie! This is crazy!”

“Oh, that’s a good idea!” I said playfully. “I will reconsider backing out once we find out that he’s not a good looking guy!”

“Damn it!” she rolled her eyes. “Why are you so calm about this? Am I the only person who wants you to claim your freedom?”

I let out a heavy sigh. “I already accepted my fate, Chandria. Besides, it does not going to happen anytime soon. I still have a little bit of freedom, I guess. I want to maximize it for God knows how.”

“Alright...” She pouted her lips. “I’m just worried you’d turn into a battered wife in the future...”

I laughed out loud. This silly girl! She also laughed a bit and then clung her arms on mine.

“So... Risha Nathalie Zendejas, shall we go?” she teased me.

I rolled my eyes and shook my head. But I guess, that’s how people will address me in the future. Damn it!

“Mom, I have cleared my schedule for this weekend as per your request.” I informed my mother who is sitting on her swivel chair with a document on her hand. It’s already evening yet she’s still working at home. She has her own office in our house. Well, my dad has his own, too.

Hiding my hands at my back, I breathed in heavily and decided to walk near her office table. After a few seconds, she glanced my way and gave me a nod.

“That’s great. I talked to Mrs. Zendejas and she agreed to set up a dinner date for you and her son, Evan. I’ll talk to her again and see if we can push that through this weekend.” She replied.

I nodded and tried to put a smile on my face.

“Do I need to prepare anything for the dinner date, Mom?” I asked her carefully.

My mother looked down at the document on her hand again. She breathed deeply. I waited for her response but she ended up shaking her head.

“I think you just have to be gorgeous when you meet him, Nathalie. You need to be prim and proper. Oh, and he needs to like you at all cost. Got it?” She answered.

I nodded slowly. Of course, I need to be beautiful enough to allure that Evan Zendejas, whoever that guy is.

“I got it, Mommy.” I said and went out of her office as I knew she’s too busy with work.

He needs to like me... That thought remained in my head. I don’t know how to do it but I guess I’ll have to try my best because that’s what my parents want to happen.

________________

“I searched that guy on the internet!” Chandria beamed when I answered her video call on FaceTime.

It’s almost midnight but I can’t sleep at all. Maybe because the thought of having a dinner date with someone whom I’ll be tied up to makes me feel so nervous. Thank God my best friend is still awake! I watched her movement on the video. She’s like a diehard fan crushing over a certain idol. Lying on my bed, my forehead creased immediately as I don’t understand why she’s acting that way.

“Idiot...” I scoffed at her.

She giggled and eyed me maliciously.

“Damn that Zendejas! I’ll let you marry that guy, got that? He’s a dropdead gorgeous man! You won’t regret it, Nathalie!” She gushed in glee.

I tried so hard to believe her but I doubted everything she said. Knowing Chandria who seemed to have issues with her eyes when it comes to men, the way she described the guy isn’t that convincing.

“What made you say that?” I asked her curiously.

I am not really interested to know him yet but since my best friend is feeding me some information, I’d like to hear it all.

“Well, he’s a full packaged hottie, alright? He’s not just an average guy you’ll see everywhere! He’s like a model­­– Oh, no! More like a demigod! If you decide not to marry him, I will volunteer to marry him instead!”

Oh, yes! My best friend is exaggerating. I chuckled as I watched her on the video. She’s truly a mess.

“Sure! I’ll let him know that someone is waiting for me to refuse the marriage and would like to replace me as his fiancée.” I joked around and we both laughed.

______________

Days passed by quickly. It’s already Saturday and my parents are both excited as this is the day they have been waiting for. The dinner date will happen in just a few hours. My mother prepared everything. She even hired stylists to help me with all the preparations as her goal is to make me look gorgeous for that guy.

“I like this dress!”

I glanced at my mother. She’s holding a halter chiffon tiered champagne dress. It is simple but it screams of elegance.

“I like it too, Mom.” I replied and smiled at her.

The stylist fixed my hair first and put it in a twisted half ponytail. Then, she put some make ups on my face which made me more confident and gorgeous. After an hour or two of preparation, I am all done and staring at my reflection on the mirror.

You can do this, Nathalie!

I hopped in our limousine nervously. I breathed in and out but still, it is not enough for my heart to calm a bit. I have never been this nervous before. I swallowed hard and tried to compose myself. The fact that I’d see him today made me more anxious.

It felt like a game that I must win. I can’t lose it no matter what happens. In the midst of chaos inside my chest, I received a text message from Chandria.

Chandria:

Hope you not drool!

I shook my head. I smirked a bit and then let out a heavy sigh. I hope this dinner date goes well...

In less than an hour, the car stopped at the familiar fivestar hotel. My bodyguard assisted me in the place. Every bit of this place screams of luxury and elegance. I cleared my throat and followed my bodyguard instead.

We went into a reserved dining hall. It’s too elegant and peaceful. There I saw the only person inside the room. He’s wearing a white vneck shirt and a black coat, partnered with his dark pants and leather shoes. His brown hair is almost hiding his eyes. Those soulful eyes... His nose is pointed perfectly and his red lips are wellshaped and kissable.

I was stunned for a moment. He’s like a demigod living in a modern era. Chandria is not bluffing when she described him! He has the angelic face but every feature of it is too defined. I would say that he’s perfectly created by someone above. I just found myself admiring this guy as I haven’t seen any man as beautiful as him!

The bottles of wine on the table where he’s seated got my attention. He looked a little bit drunk but he managed to look my way with a menace in his eyes. My heart started pounding fast inside my chest because he’s now aware of my presence!

I felt my feet freezing.

“That’s Mr. Evan Zendejas, Miss Nathalie...” Riley informed me.

“You... can leave us...” I mumbled slowly as I gathered all the strength in me.

Again, you have to win this night, Nathalie.

Without further ado and with all my courage, I walked toward the table where he was seated. He gazed at me coldly. The angelic face he had for a moment was gone. It felt like my heart will come out from my chest because of his ruthless stare.

I sat on the available chair in front of him. He smirked at me that sent shivers down my spine. I tried to smile but damn it! My knees felt weak right now! The ruthlessness of his aura is eating me up.

“Risha Nathalie...” He mentioned my name formally.

Even the sound of his voice appears to be undeniably perfect. The way he uttered my name, it is just very unfamiliar to me. It’s like a soothing melody and I’d love to hear it more often.

“Good evening, Mr. Zendejas—”

“Please call me Evan.” He uttered huskily.

“A—alright, Evan...” I called his name softly.

Damn! I am just so shy right now and this is the first time I ever felt this kind of feeling in front of a man! I breathed heavily and smiled a bit. I couldn’t even say a single word. I blinked several times as he’s still looking at me intently

Chandria is just fucking right. This man affects me already! He’s like a virus that gets into my system faster than I thought and it makes me weak in a different way.

He let out a huge sigh and poured some wine on his wine glass, and then he emptied it and refilled it with another wine. I got worried as he was getting really drunk.

“Uh, I— I think you have enough...” I told him hesitantly.

“You can eat, kid. Please, don’t mind me.” He replied in a cold tone.

I got offended by that. I cleared my throat as I felt invalidated. He thinks I’m a kid, huh? But this kid will be his wife anytime soon!

“Just so you know, I am already twentytwo years old. I am not young anymore,” I defended myself, and annoyed at the same time.

“You looked sixteen to me. I apologize then,” he smirked once again

There it is! I lose my patience as I didn’t expect him to be this rude! I raised an eyebrow and smirked at him. This man needs to respect me as I’ll make sure that he’ll spend the rest of his life with me.

“Please don’t talk to me that way. My name is Risha Nathalie Saavedra, and I am your fiancée.” I pointed out in a cold voice.

He was surprised for a moment but then he flashed his devilish smile at me. Now I think I won’t be able to escape.

He nodded, agreeing to my statement. He leaned back in his chair, with his one hand resting on the table. I bit my lower lip as I have to admit that he’s more charismatic now that he’s releasing his devilish side.

“I’m impressed about the fact that you’ll marry someone you barely know,” he taunted me.

“I have to, Evan.” I shrugged and leaned forward. I rested both of my elbows on the table and smiled playfully at him. “And I guess you will have to do the same.”

He smirked back at me.

_______________

“How was the dinner date?” My mom asked me curiously when I went home that night.

I went immediately in their room because they wanted to know the details of the said dinner date. I can see the excitement in their hopeful eyes and I could not blame them. This is what they have dreamed for the longest time. I smiled at them as I put my hands at my back, intertwined each finger as a sign of a new white lie I am about to tell.

“It was great...” I answered as I faked a smile.

“Do you think he likes you?” Mom asked me once again.

“I think so, Mommy. I mean that’s the first time we met. It’s really hard to tell but I hope so...” I lied.

“What did you talk about then?” my father asked.

“We talked about the business, dad. He knows everything about our company and he’s quite impressive,” I answered, still intertwining each finger at my back.

“That’s a great start, honey!” Mom walked towards me and embraced me tightly. “You’re such a good daughter. I didn’t doubt you on that. I know you will never disappoint us!”

“Of course, mom. I won’t do anything that will disappoint you...” I assured her and smiled a bit.

I went out of their room after our small talk and damn it, that gave me a sigh of relief. I am not fond of telling lies and I hate myself for doing it earlier just because I wanted to save my ass.

He likes me? That’s the biggest lie ever! I shook my head as I remembered how Evan acted during that freaking dinner we had!

I noticed my bodyguard, Riley, waiting for me in front of my parents’ room. He bowed his head as a way of his respect to me.

“I hope you won’t them what really happened. It’s embarrassing, Riley.” I told him warily.

“No worries, Miss Nathalie.” He replied formally.

“Good. Thank you,” I said and went upstairs.

I went inside my room and sat at the edge of my bed absentmindedly. I just had a long day and I cannot believe it all happened. Chandria was right. That guy is sinfully handsome. He’s an angel who will turn himself into a devil to scare a person. I was confident right before I talked to him. Now, I doubt myself!

He talked and looked at me with such overflowing cruelty. Not to mention that he sort of insulted me and assumed that I was a minor? I shook my head in disbelief. It is really a detractor... but why do I still have this unfamiliar urge to know him well?

“I’m impressed about the fact that you’ll marry someone you barely know...” I remembered him say.

He doesn’t like the idea of fixed marriage, that’s one thing I’m sure of. If he’s against it, then he doesn’t need to meet me. He doesn’t need to follow this set up. Why did he meet me then? I just shrugged. Whatever the reason is, I guess it’s no longer important.

At the end of this day, I still have to pursue him. I need to know him more. I want to be closer to him. That’s how it should start.

We’ll get to know each other.

We’ll be friends and then everything will be just intimate.

I smiled playfully. That will happen... It must happen...

Damn it! I was forced to wake up early the next day as my best friend, Chandria, kept calling me on my cellphone. She was too excited to know every details of my dinner date with that man, if that went well and how did I interact with Evan Zendejas. It was just seven o’clock in the morning and seriously, I was curious as to where she got all her energy.

“What? Did you drool? I told you that he’s gorgeous and a head turner! Not to add that he’s one of the famous bachelors in the Philippines! I did a background check and found out that he doesn’t have a girlfriend and he couldn’t even move on from his first love, so he’s basically a loner! If I were you, I’d do my best to lure him and make him fall for me!” said Chandria, with an excitement evident in her voice.

I rubbed my right eye and yawned. She kept providing a lot of information; however, I was too sleepy that my mind couldn’t catch up. I closed my eyes hoping for another nap and just put my phone on top of my ear even though I don’t really want to listen to her at this moment.

“Oh, and I almost forgot to tell you that his friends are all goodlooking! Geez, you really have to introduce me to Evan so that I’d have a way to meet his circle of friends, Nathalie!”

“Chandria, it’s too early. Can we just talk about this later? I’m just too sleepy for heaven’s sake,” I groaned.

My best friend laughed on her end but then, she just continued where she left off. She also mentioned about Evan’s friends that I don’t even know. It seemed that Chandria has able to get to know that guy upon doing a background check while here I am, completely puzzled about his life. I don’t even know a single thing about him other than the fact that he’s a Zendejas and he’s the one I would be marrying in the future.

“I heard Evan’s first love is beautiful and one of a kind reason why he could not move on from her,” she added.

Her last statement made me open my eyes. For a damn moment, I felt wide awake! I shifted my position and held the phone on my ear.

“What? He can’t move on?” I asked curiously.

She chuckled a bit. “Well, that’s what I heard. Maybe that is also the reason why he doesn’t have a girlfriend. He doesn’t even bring a woman to some gatherings and parties. What could be the other reason right?”

I mean... Where did she get all these information? She’s really a stalker!

“Or maybe he’s gay? What do you think? You should have noticed it on his movement!”

Damn! I almost cringed at the thought that Evan is gay. That’s just really impossible. I remembered his ruthless stares at me last night. Based on his aura and movement, I am sure that he’s not gay.

Oh, goodness, Chandria!

“He’s not gay, that’s for sure...” I uttered firmly.

“Alright then, when will you meet him again?”

I rolled my eyes. She’s really something!

“I’m not sure but I’ll try to see him again. Maybe today?”

She laughed once again. “Well, good luck on that!”

I couldn’t get back to sleep after our conversation. I felt that I need to know a lot of things about Evan. Out of curiosity, I asked Riley to do a background check on him.

I was in the library and reading a book when Riley showed up and handed me some papers. I put the book down and scanned the information printed on the papers. Like I requested, Riley did a thorough background check on him.

Based on the information I have, he’s 27 years old and a graduate of Business Administration course in college. He took over his family business at a young age and is currently the CEO of Zendejas Company. They are managing hundreds of hotels and restaurants in the Philippines. He also has two siblings, and three closed friends, which has been discussed by Chandria a while ago.

“Irish Esquivel. Is she his exgirlfriend?” I asked curiously.

“Yes, Miss Nathalie. Miss Esquivel is already engaged with the Lopez’s first son.”

“You mean Nathan Lopez?”

“Yes, Miss.” He confirmed.

Poor, Evan. It appears that he can no longer get her back unless he is the type of man who would show up on his exlover’s wedding day and would stop it by hook. I smiled at my own thought.

I also figured out his hobbies. So, he’s basically into racing and drifting, surfing and motorcycling. Riley also got his work schedules.

“Oh, so he’ll be working in their company today?” I asked Riley.

“That’s correct, Miss.”

“Alright! I appreciate all these information, Riley. You have to get ready. We’ll leave at ten o’clock to visit Evan at his work,” I said as I put down the papers on my desk.

Riley left after my command. I leaned back in my swivel chair, with a small smile on my lips. I can’t even stop thinking of him!

If he thinks that I am just a girl who would marry him right away because of his worth then he might be kidding himself. I am sure that he’s not going to marry me that easily too.

He’s a stranger to me, and I know he thinks the same way but it’s workable. I have all the time to get to know him. I want to find out if he’s really a man who can’t move on from that girl— Irish Esquivel. I want to dig deeper and understand every detail about him before we step forward and get married.

I didn’t waste any time. I took a bath and make sure that I am presentable, and beautiful enough to tame him. I wore a champagne color crepe back satin midi dress and a pair of black sandals.

I stood up in front of my mirror and put some light make up on my face. I wore a red lipstick and smiled at my own reflection. I ran my fingers through my curly hair and decided to let it hang on my back. After a short while, I am all prepared.

I grabbed my phone and sent a text message to Chandria.

To: Chandria

I will visit him at work.

I stared at my reflection on the mirror again. The side of my lips curled up for a smirk.

Just so you wait, Evan. We’ll see how this arrangement goes.

I was on my way to visit Evan in his office when Chandria phoned me. Being the most excited best friend like she is when it comes to this arrangement that started to happen in my boring life, she started whining and gushing while on the phone with me.

“Are you sure that you want to visit him at work? Isn’t it so sweet of you?” she exclaimed, high tone as ever.

“Yeah, I’m on my way actually.” I said, biting my lower lip.

Riley, who happened to be my driver gracefully drove our way out of our mansion. I continued to talk to Chandria.

“That’s the spirit! And hey, don’t forget to introduce me to his friends once you get closer to him, alright?”

I giggled. She’s really into one of Evan’s friends. I don’t even remember their names. The only thing I’m aware of is the fact that Chandria has a crush on one of them. Nevertheless, it is clear that my priority is no other than Evan.

“I’ll try and see what I can do. Let’s hope that Evan will cooperate.”

“You can do it, Nathalie! Show and prove him that you are different from the woman who broke his heart,” she said and then she laughed out loud.

She’s crazy. Silence engulfed the whole car after the conversation I had with Chandria. In less than an hour, I could almost see the skyscrapers in the city of Makati. The place where Zendejas’ company is located.

I could feel the loud beating of my heart inside my chest. I am not sure whether it is because I am excited or because I am freaking nervous at the same time. My mouth ran dry just when Riley parked the car in front of the main entrance of Zendejas’ company.

Oh, my goodness! I think my chest is about to explode! I could not even breathe properly now that I realized that I am in front of his company. Riley went out of the car first and then made his way to open the passenger’s door for me. I let out a heavy sigh, and then went out of our car too.

I tried to compose myself as we entered into the building and holy cow, my mouth was wide opened upon seeing the elegance of their place. The walls are painted with pure gray porcelain, there are interior plants designs everywhere that makes a good ambiance, an extravagant chandelier on the centre part of the ceiling, and the floor seems to be created out of expensive stone.

We walked towards the front desk area. Riley coordinated with them and after a few seconds, an employee led the way for us. I also noticed that most of their employees are wearing formal attires and I looked very different in my midi dress.

“This way, please.”

We followed the front desk employee. We went inside the elevator and out of curiosity, I tried to ask a question.

“On which floor is Evan’s office?”

The front desk employee smiled at me. “It’s on 37th floor, Miss.”

I nodded slowly.

Great! I wanted to know where his office is, so that the next time I pay a visit here, I would know where to find him.

The elevator door has opened when we reached the right floor. Another lady welcomed us as soon as the front desk employee left me and Riley. The pretty lady in black formal attire must be Evan’s secretary.

“Good morning, Miss. Do you have an appointment with Mr. Zendejas today?” she asked me politely.

I glanced at Riley who is standing beside me. He seemed to have no idea about it and I didn’t expect that I must have an appointment first in order to visit Evan. I looked back at the woman who is waiting for my answer. I faked a smile.

“Actually, I am his fiancée. My name is Risha Nathalie Saavedra. I did not make an appointment but I just want to visit him if that’s alright?” I managed to say politely.

The lady in front of me seemed to be surprised when she heard the word ‘fiancée’. I just faked a smile once again.

Holy cow! I am not sure if telling her that I am Evan’s fiancée was the right thing to do. I just want to see that guy for Pete’s sake!

“NNice to meet you, Miss. I will inform Mr. Zendejas that you are here and would like see him,” she said in a formal tone.

“Great!”

She went back to her desk and pushed a button on the intercom. I inhaled heavily. A sudden fear has eaten up my entire senses that I could not think straight.

“Mr. Zendejas...” the secretary has started talking.

“Yes?” a familiar baritone answered her.

The side of my lips curled up for a small smile. Though I feel the fear inside my chest, I felt very excited to see him again after hearing his voice.

“Uhm... Your fiancée is here and would like to see you, Mr. Zendejas.” The lady informed him carefully.

Got that, Evan? Your fiancée is here. I am here to see you again. I can’t wait to ask you out for lunch. My heart is pounding aggressively; excited for the things we’re about to do... and way more excited to get to know him.

“Wait— what? I don’t have a fiancée. Who is that?”

Oh, fuck...

My jaw has dropped on the floor, literally. It felt like there is a growing death inside me and I just want to pass out after hearing him saying those words. My whole body froze up...

What did he say?

Did he just deny me right in front of Riley and his employee?

I clenched my jaw as I felt the sudden rage inside my chest. My hands started shaking because of the extreme anger that is eating me up. My eyes glared at the clueless intercom where I heard that irritating voice of him.

“II am sorry, Mr. Zendejas...” the secretary got confused. “YYou have a visitor here and sshe’s claiming—”

The fact that he just denied me, I’ve lost all the patience in me and went to his secretary’s desk and grabbed the intercom’s microphone so that I could do the talking.

“Jessica, you know that I am busy. I don’t like to welcome any visitor right now.” He said firmly.

Now, I am fuming mad as hell! I can’t believe he’d do this to me when I made an effort to visit him!

“Fucking bastard...” I spoke in a hard tone. “I didn’t realize that you will play this cheap game, Evan Zendejas.”

Silence engulfed us. I swore to God that the moment I see him, I will definitely beat the shit out of him!

He chuckled on the line that made me so angry as hell. Riley walked towards me, who looked unsure about what he’d do with the situation. In the end, all he does is to run his fingers through his bald head.

“Risha...” he called me huskily.

Hearing him call me on my first name sends shiver up to my spine. No one has ever called me that way. It felt unfamiliar for a moment but I tossed this thought away.

“Fuck you,” I breathed heavily. “I was just going to ask you a little time to have lunch with me and I am surprised that you denied me just like that.”

“Let’s talk.”

Yeah, we will talk!

“I will kill you.” I said through my gritted teeth.

He chuckled once again. This guy, really!

My lips formed a thin line. I looked at the double doors on the right side of this table. That must be the door to his office. I didn’t waste time and walked my way to Evan’s office. He’s definitely dead!

I pushed the double doors and entered into his wide office. I saw him on the center corner, sitting on his desk like a boss arrogantly while holding a piece of document on his hand. Yes, the first word that flashed into my mind is arrogant, because that’s what I see in him. He’s wearing a gray colored formal coat with white collared long sleeves as an inner cloth. He looked at me with menace evident in his eyes.

“Risha...”

I swallowed the big lump in my throat. I couldn’t even think straight as the thought of him denying me in front of our people makes me so frustrated. I went closer to his desk and without further ado and with all the strength and anger I have, I slapped him very hard. So damn hard that it made him froze up.

Yeah, he froze up a bit but was able to smirk right after a few seconds. My forehead creased and my breathing is getting ragged.

“That was... for denying me.” I said through my gritted teeth.

He smiled devilishly and stared at me with cruelty. My heart pounded aggressively when he stood up and walked towards me. The side of his lips curled up for a smirk. He’s obviously amused for God knows why! I swallowed the lump in my throat and tried to look away.

“Would you still be mad at me if I agree to have lunch with you?” he asked, almost like a tease.

I clenched my jaw. I really thought that he’s just cruel when he’s drunk but it seemed like he is way crueler when he’s sober. It’s like his normal behaviour and the only thing he’s good at.

I scowled at him. Never will I forgive him for denying me!

He laughed a bit. He took another step, removing the distance between us. My body froze up when his hand caressed my cheek gently. For a moment, I felt my knees getting weak and my heart is like in a racing field.

“Don’t touch me!” I yelled at him and then I removed his hand from my face.

He grinned devilishly and leaned back to his desk. He’s still staring at me with his dark and menacing eyes.

“How about if I go out with you? Would you still be mad at me?” he then asked playfully.

My lips formed a thin line. I can’t believe that I am hearing all these nonsense from him! A simple apology is enough, you idiot!

“Or would you like it if I sleep with you?”

I laughed sarcastically. I feel like barfing because of his last question. Do I look like someone who’s chasing him just for sex? The nerve of this guy! I never thought I could feel this kind of fury towards a person!

Yeah, he may be damn wealthy and has a name he’d be proud of. Nevertheless, if he doesn’t have a heart and manners, everything he has will be just put into waste. His parents might have been so busy making money that they have forgotten to teach him some manners!

“I am giving you options, Risha...”

I glared at him darkly. “I think I just realized why that girl Esquivel dumped you. You’re a stupid jerk, arrogant and cruel...”

His eyes grew darker as he stared at me. The hell I care!

“You are a fucking loser and an illmannered man, Evan. You know what? Your exgirlfriend made a better decision when she dumped you.” I continued. “You’re not the type of man who is worth all the love from someone.”

I saw the rage flashing in his eyes and I feel like dancing in victory. It seemed like Chandria was right. This man hasn’t even moved on from his first love.

I am still mad as hell when I went back home. I ran upstairs and shut my room door closed. My hatred towards that man is still powerful and evident that even I tried to calm down myself; it is not working at all.

That Evan Zendejas is a proven arrogant and bastard! What a stupid jerk!

I really wanted to yell at his face! This is the first time that someone has denied me. Not by my parents or friends but my fiancé! And he did it in front of other people!

I would understand if he doesn’t want to marry me. That would be totally fine with me, the hell I care! But the fact that he made me so stupid because he denied me is just really unacceptable. Damn him!

I had a good motive, alright? I wanted to know him so bad and see if things between the two of us will work out. I wanted to try and see how things will be like if I get to know him. I just wanted to at least learn more things about him so I could decide whether I will proceed with this goddamn agreement or will just abandon the promise I made to my parents.

But he’s a ruthless guy. He’s truly an evil person I don’t feel like messing up with. I just lose my interest in him...

I don’t think I could marry someone who’s very evil. He’s a pain in the ass!

I don’t want to be rude and someone who would break her promises but the fact that Evan Zendejas insulted me made me truly sick, sick of this marriage for convenience and definitely sick with that bastard.

He was cruel... He showed me his arrogance twice already and I am sure that he would do it again the very next time we see each other.

I was thinking about it the whole time and finally, I have already made up my mind. I have decided not to marry that guy. It would be best to refuse this kind of arrangement so that I won’t feel the burden of becoming his wife.

With this thoughts and decision in mind, I let myself take a rest and fall asleep with a relief inside my chest. I have decided to tell everything to my parents. I am certain that they would understand how I feel and will let me refuse the marriage.

Or so I thought?

“Nathalie! Nathalie, wake up!” I heard my mom’s voice, almost panicking for something I am not even aware of.

I felt her shaking my shoulder that made me wake up from a deep sleep. I blinked twice and rubbed my eye, and then I saw my mother who is beside me. She’s in panic and looking at me hysterically.

“Mom?” my voice is still husky.

I noticed that mom is still wearing her office attire. It seemed like she just got home from work. My room is already dark and with my mom’s sudden appearance, I was forced to check the little clock on my side table. It is already 7 o’clock in the evening.

“Oh my goodness, Nathalie! What have you done? God, Evan is here! He is waiting for you! Why did he visit? What did you do this time?” She asked me with her voice almost getting high pitch.

My mouth ran dry as I felt my entire senses have awakened upon hearing my mother’s statement. I got up from bed with my widened eyes. I gasped and shook my head.

“WWhat did you just say, Mom? WWho’s visiting mme?” I stammered.

“Evan Zendejas! Evan is here, Nathalie! That’s why I am asking you! What happened? He told us that something happened earlier between the two of you! What did you do?”

Unbelievable! He’s here? Why?

My mother stared at me accusingly like I am kind of a bad daughter who did something awful to that jerk. My lips protruded. I did not do something bad! He was the one who picked up a fight against me!

“Mom, I swear I didn’t do anything wrong!” I defended myself.

Mom’s forehead just creased. She looked very disappointed.

“Mommy, I didn’t do anything, I promise! He was the one at fault here, not me alright?” I hissed.

“My goodness, Nathalie! How can you be so reckless?” she snorted without even listening. “Go ahead and change your clothes into something formal! You have to face your fiancé downstairs!” she said and then went out of my room.

I rolled my eyes. Why the hell is he even here? What does he need at this time? Is he visiting so he could tell my parents that he doesn’t want to marry me? Well, the hell I care! I’m not scared at all!

I didn’t bother to change my clothes. My black racer back and faded shorts are fine! He’s not a prince so why wear something pretty? He’s not going to appreciate it anyway. I put my hair in a bun and just washed my face, and then I went out of my room.

I was about to walk downstairs when I heard their voices in the living room. I let out a heavy sigh. It feels like I am getting sick today but I have to go on.

I walked downstairs and leaned in the cemented railings. I met Evan’s eyes. I remember those eyes almost flashing in rage earlier in his office. Now, he’s looking at me without any emotion. What has changed?

He stood up, acknowledging my presence.

On the other hand, my mother groaned a bit just when she noticed me wearing something informal in front of my visitor but I didn’t mind at all.

I didn’t move. I was standing at the edge of our stairs, still leaning on it. I just felt uncomfortable knowing that an evil is breathing the same air I breathe right now.

“What are you doing here?” I asked him lazily.

The interest and curiosity I once felt for him were both gone.

He licked his lower lip. He glanced at my father and then turned his eyes back on mine.

“Risha Nathalie...” my mom whispered warily.

“I just wanted to check on you, Risha.” He said in a calm tone.

Hmn, where’s the arrogant Evan Zendejas? My forehead creased as I didn’t expect him to behave this way.

He looked so calm and kind... What happened to the cruel guy who insulted me?

“I am fine as you can see.”

“I also want to apologize,” he said softly. “I didn’t mean to be insensitive and rude earlier.”

I swallowed hard. I blinked twice as I tried to digest everything he said. He just apologized to me. This isn’t a dream, right?

What’s got into him?

My father smiled widely which got my attention. I also looked at my mother who keeps pouting her lips, like she’s trying to say a signal, that I must say something to Evan.

“WWhat do you need from me then?” I managed to say. To be honest, I am really confused.

Is this the end of the world? Why is he acting so strange?

“Can we talk?” he carefully asked, with his soft voice.

I shook my head immediately, and then I saw the dismay in his eyes.

“Nathalie,” father called me warily.

“Don’t be so rude, Nathalie!” Mom said hysterically. She walked towards me and dragged me in front of Evan.

I just pouted my lips. I can feel his eyes staring at me that I had to lower my head to hide my blushing cheeks because I am just too shy to stand close to him. I also don’t understand what’s happening right now. What does he need from me, anyway?

He already apologized and I know that deep within my heart, it is enough for me to forgive him for what he’s done to me. I think it is all set... So, why do we have to talk?

Does he need to talk to me to educate me about his decision to refuse the supposed marriage between the two of us? Does he need my help to inform my parents about it?

“May I please talk to Risha alone?”

My parents both cleared their throats. I glanced their way and they are seemed confused too. I looked back at Evan and still, he’s wearing a blank emotion in his eyes. After a few uncomfortable seconds, my parents has finally nodded and left us alone. They both went to the office and closed its door.

I sighed in defeat. Now what?

“What exactly do you need from me?” I asked with my forehead creased.

His lips flashed a small smirk. He put his right hands into his pants pocket and stepped closer to me.

“You’re still mad at me,” he said with a hard tone.

Here you go. The cruel guy is back.

He’s not just a cruel guy, I guess. He’s also a great pretender, who showed kindness in front of my parents. Since they left us, he already removed his mask. Now, the evil Evan is back.

“So what if I am mad at you?” I snorted.

I crossed my arms and looked away. My eyes are unwilling to even glare back at him. He’s getting into my nerves! I reminded myself to calm a bit. I don’t want to make any scene knowing that my parents are here and probably eavesdropping on us or what not. For sure, I wouldn’t like what might happen next the moment they hear me yelling at this guy.

I heard him chuckle. What’s so funny? It’s strange how he can easily jump from persona to another. He was just playing an angel role earlier and here’s how he behaves now that we’re alone.

“I will make my employees aware that I have a fiancée,” he said in a soft tone.

My lips parted as my eyes widened. I glanced back at him.

Is that for real? If so, does that mean he would not back out from this arrangement? I gasped. He’s only looking at me with the amusement evident in his pierced eyes.

“I thought you are here because you wanted to talk to my parents and tell them that... you’re going to back out from all this,” I said with my voice so low.

The side of his lips curled up. It seemed that he is very amused to see me getting dumbfounded because of my false hunch.

“You wanted to have lunch with me, right? I can make time for you tomorrow.” he added.

“What?”

He shook his head, with a smile flashing on his lips. “You heard me, Risha. And just so you know, I don’t plan to back out from this arrangement set up by our families. I would like to make it clear.”

“And why is that?”

“Your family business can definitely help my company.” He simply answered.

Or maybe our families are just really close to each other reason why they set us up? If so, then this guy would really chase me no matter what happens?

Wow! This must be a nightmare.

“Yeah, I forgot that this is purely for business,” I managed to say.

He nodded. “This is how we work for business, Risha Nathalie.”

“Okay...”

He’s right. And since I am the daughter of Frank and Michelle Saavedra, I am obliged to help my parents achieve their goals.

You’re fully aware of this, Nathalie. This kind of set up has been introduced to you even before you did not have any idea about it, ever since you were young.

They only added details as I grew up to better understand it.

“Are you still mad?”

I shook my head. “Not anymore.”

“Then I am waiting for your apology,” he said, with his tone hard, especially when he uttered the last word.

I scowled at him. I can’t believe what he just said! Why do I need to apologize to him? His eyes squinted as he looked at me, waiting for my apology. I even saw the rage on his smile. He’s totally mocking me!

“So, am I a fucking loser to you?” he said, still, with his hard tone.

I frowned and swallowed the big lump in my throat. I suddenly felt ill upon remembering those hurtful words I said in this office. I mean, those words would have not been said only if he treated me fairly. He started the fight between us! Now, why is he asking me to apologize? He’s insane!

“You also slapped me,” he added.

Oh my goodness! I felt my knees getting weak. But, he deserved that slap, anyway! He insulted and denied me in front of his secretary and Riley!

“That I deserve to be dumped and not worth the love from someone?”

I heard the bitterness on his voice when he voiced out his last statement. Damn it! I was dazed and couldn’t react anything as I know that those I have said were really hurtful. I bit my lower lip.

He took two steps to be closer to me. My whole body is freezing up as his aura became more intense. I wanted to step back but I have no strength to do so.

Guilt and nervousness fucked me up!

It feels like I am in a big trouble. I can’t even handle his intense glare at me. His eyes are still flashing in rage. His entire presence is too scary that I felt so alarmed and guilty.

My heart is pounding aggressively. Should I start apologizing now?

But, hey! He’s the one who started this fight, not me!

“I didn’t expect you to be this gutsy because you are too young, Risha Nathalie,” he uttered in a firm and deadly voice. “That was the first time I got slapped in the face.”

Oh, that surprised me! That was the first time that someone has slapped him? Does that mean his exgirlfriend was that kind and didn’t hurt him physically?

My lips parted in disbelief. I was about to say something but I can’t utter the right words.

“You remind me of someone...” he said bitterly.

I breathed in heavily. With all my courage, I looked at him. His piercing eyes are still in rage as he looked at me warily. It’s like he’s sending a warning that I have to be good or else I’m dead.

“You were the one who started this, Evan. I am not going to apologize. If only you have treated me fairly, things like this won’t ever happen in the first place.”

His jaw clenched. I know he’s only trying to control his emotion. I stepped back, trying to save myself from the intensity of his dark aura. He smirked and shook his head once again.

He pulled out his wallet from the back pocket of his pants and took a card from it. He moved closer to me and held my hand. He put the black card on my palm.

“I still owe you a lunch,” he said, his voice is already calm. “If in case you are not mad at me, please call me. You can also visit my office. I will make sure that all my employees will be aware of the situation so you won’t be embarrassed again...” He chuckled. “I will keep reminding myself that I have a young fiancée too. I will not forget it, Risha.”

My jaw has literally dropped on the floor just when he pulled me closer to him and gave me a kiss on my cheek.

“I have to go. I hope you have a good night,” he said coolly.

He left me dazed and confused. What the hell was the kiss for? Clueless and feeling dumb about what has just happened, the only thing I managed to say is a curse.

“Damn you, Evan Zendejas...”

I kept looking at the calling card that Evan gave me last night and it’s funny that I also kept rolling my eyes on it— shoving away the thought of calling him for a lunch date today.

If I call him now, that would only show that I am just one of the girls who can’t resist him. He would probably think that I am not mad at him anymore.

Well, for the record, I am no longer upset about what happened yesterday. The fact that he visited me here last night and apologized to what he’s done, that’s already an enough reason for me to forgive him.

I just don’t like it when he speaks with full of arrogance.

I sighed heavily. I massaged the side of my forehead as I felt so stressed with all these thought playing around my head. I am just twentytwo years old, but this marriage for convenience and my soontobe husband are both giving me so much headache!

I also thought about the details of our engagement and wedding. I have no idea about it at all. My parents haven’t told me any information such as the date of the official announcement of our engagement day or the marriage itself. When would that be?

Or perhaps Evan changed his mind and decided to back out and the marriage will no longer happen. Maybe he thinks we are not soul mates or meant to be?

I cringed at my last thought.

Well, I have to admit that I got this interest in him the first time I met him because he’s like a puzzle to me. He’s like a challenge that I have to win. But my feelings have changed. Now, I am sure that I am interested in him because I want him to realize that he has this bad personality. He’s arrogant and full of himself. He acts like a king that I would chase whatever happens. I’d like to see him change and be humble because that’s all he can do.

So far, I have no idea how to do it.

Chandria laughed so hard when I told her what happened between me and Evan yesterday. My face just heated in shame. I was telling her what happened so I could get her sympathy but she ended up laughing at my story.

My lips protruded. I should have not told her. I didn’t like it when she’s only making fun of me.

The vivid memory of what happened yesterday still replays in my mind. It sends shiver down my spine. Whenever I think about it, I could not help but to feel upset.

Chandria sipped on her coffee and tried to control her amusement. She cleared her throat and bit her lower lip to stop herself from laughing.

“It is not funny, Chandria.” I said, rolling my eyes at her. Then, I sipped on my frappe.

“I am sorry, Nathalie!” she giggled and then shook her head. “I just can’t believe that it really happened. I mean... I would understand if his secretary does not know the situation but Evan Zendejas does not know that he has a fiancée? That’s totally absurd! I think he did that on purpose!”

That is exactly what I have been thinking about. I have this kind of feeling that I am less important and just a toy he would play with for his own amusement. He would only keep me for the sake of his company.

But then, he apologized to me last night... He admitted that he forgot...

I don’t even know if he is really telling the truth.

I shook my head. “It seems like I will be getting a lot of headache because of that guy. He is not really nice like what I have thought.”

Chandria looked at me as if she is trying to read through my head. She even squinted her eyes and trying to observe the emotion on my face.

I nodded slowly.

Chandria is probably right. I took out the black calling card Evan gave me from my wallet.

I am giving him the benefit of the doubt. What if he is just arrogant because he does not know me yet? What if he is really a kind hearted guy if I just try to get to know him better?

Maybe he is a kind person and he is only trying to look arrogant and rude in front of me because that is part of his defence? After all, he experienced heartache from his exlover.

Maybe he is only trying to hide his true self?

“Call him!” Chandria commanded.

“Don’t you think it is too fast if I would call him now? I mean, we just had an argument yesterday and it hasn’t been past twentyfour hours when he apologized...”

I just want to at least lie low for fortyeight hours so that he won’t think that I am really chasing him. I don’t want him to have that kind of thought and will be proud of it in front of my face. No way!

“You should not be waiting time, Nathalie. You are only giving Evan enough time to think thoroughly and doubt this arrangement. Aren’t you scared if suddenly he changes his mind and back out?”

I shook my head. If that happens, that would be his decision to make. My pride is the most important thing to me!

She smirked. “How about your parents? Do you think they could handle it if Evan refuses to marry you? If you’re going to ask me, I highly doubt it.”

That left me dazed.

I felt scared as I imagined my parents’ dismayed eyes if in case Evan have backed out.

No way... I could not break their hearts just like that!