The CEO Bride? Or Maid?

RED

I was about to get out of this chaotic bar when suddenly a woman grabbed my arm. She held onto me while walking like a freaking zombie! Who is this woman? What in the world is she up to?

I have been in a similar situation like this before, where someone pretended to be drunk and then accidentally bumped into me.

Tss!

I'm not going to be susceptible to this kind of scam. Woman, you'd better find someone else.

I was stunned by what I was thinking as I smelled the glistening aroma of wine emanating from her mouth. "You are the most handsome man I have seen tonight… How about marrying me, Mr. Handsome?" she murmured, her face lit up with the sweetest grin.

Who is this woman?

I couldn't help but shake my head at what I was thinking. Anyways, why should I care? She is, without a doubt, like any other woman in financial distress who is looking for someone to help her.

"Let go!" I shouted at her, and shoved her away from me.

Who did she think she is? Even asking me to marry her in the midst of a large crowd. She wasn't even close to being my type.... Well… Although she is attractive, I will not lower my standards only to suit this type of woman.

I noticed her being escorted by two men who appeared to be wasted. "Miss, what if we got married? hahaha," they joke as they brush their hands across the woman's shoulder. "Stop struggling, come with us… I promise we will be gentle," said the guy who looks like a rugby user.

I quickly approached them and took the rugby looking users hand away from that woman's shoulder. "Ouch!" he moaned. I just stared at him with a blank expression. A serious face as possible.

"Get lost!" I said with a serious face, the two rugbylooking users were immediately stunned and quickly ran away.

Anyway, how was it possible for this woman to continue drinking? Given how wasted she is, it would be rude of me to leave her on the floor. Do I need to assist her? No, why would I even help her. I have no idea who she is or where she lives. Just a pain in the neck, that's all she'll be.

I look at her and seeing her laying on the ground makes me feel pity for her. You should be grateful that you ran into someone as nice as me, lady. Fine, I'll match your performance. I carried her to my car and drove her home.

BUENAVISTA’S MANSION

"Warmly welcome her in; she'll be staying for the night," I informed the maids. She struggled to stand up straight, and despite staggering, she pushed herself to bow.

"Hello!" she said with the sweetest smile on her face. Her actions earned a smile from the servants. This woman appears to be really wasted. Her system was overpowered by the effects of alcohol.

"Take her to the guest room." I ordered them and went straight to my room to take a shower.

After I showered, I went to the guest room to check if that woman was still breathing.

"Are you awake?" I asked when I saw her peeking out the window.

"Ah!! Pervert!!" she shouted as she took a pillow to throw at me. "Who are you?! What did you do to me?!" she said while tears are continually dropping from her eyes.

I approached her and whispered. "Would you believe me if I told you we did everything I wanted?" I whispered in the side of her ear. "You seem to be satisfied with what we did earlier," I said, teasing her. She just stood there looking at me in shock at what I said. She instantly developed rosy cheeks. Did she just flush after hearing what I said?

After a few minutes, she seemed to have recovered from her daydreaming, "Your face is too thick to speak such words. Me? Satisfied?! I am Chelsea Leigh Garcia and I'm not that low class of a lady if that's what you're thinking!" she yelled in my face. She slapped a 1,000 peso cash in my face and said, "A thousand for this one night, think what you want to think but I don't want to see your face again, goodbye!" She then stormed out of the guest room and slammed the door as she left.

Wait a minute— Is this how she'll repay me for everything I've done for her? She is the one who insisted that I marry her earlier and she is the one who just made a scene a while ago? And why did she throw one thousand peso cash? Damn, I'm only worth one thousand peso?!

"Hmm… Chelsea Leigh Garcia… She is kinda interesting…" I grin as I recall her name. I think I like her. This type of woman should be by my side at all times!

CHELSEA

I exclaimed in a drunken beersipping voice, "Fck you, Mark! You are such a shitface! I shouldn't have trusted you." I broke up with my shitface boyfriend, and now I'm here at the bar. I caught him kissing my sister, Maxine. Shameless! Their actions are inhuman. They shouldn't have been called humans!

They are perfect for each other. They are both motherfckers!

I screamed as my tears started to pour, "You think if I leave you, I won't be able to find someone else and I'll end up as an old lady?!"

Although I am aware that people are staring at me, I don't care what they think of me at the moment. I banged the glass against the table, and it generated a great deal of noise. I don't care. I need to let out all of the rage I'm having right now.

"Mark, you stupid! Watch me instantly find a guy who I can exchange for you." I said to myself in a low voice.

In search of a man who met my standards, I cast a glance at every person in the bar. My eyes scanned the area for a while before I finally saw a man. My eyes landed on an angelic figure, and that was it—target spotted. In addition to his wonderful posture, he also had black hair, small eyes, a highly pointed nose, and the appearance that he smelt well. Shit! Today has been really fortunate for me.

He abruptly rose up and appeared to be walking towards me, which caught me off guard. I jumped up and welcomed him right away. I said, "Hey," grabbed his arm and held on to his shirt, but all he did was stare at me. He should be able to see my face clearly. I made sure of that. I grinned at him and said, "You are the most handsome man I have seen tonight. How about marrying me, Mr. Handsome?" I am positive that my charming grin will be enough to grab his attention.

“Let go!” he shouted in my face, as he continued to stare at me before suddenly pushing me.

As the force of him pushing me got a little bit stronger, I was thrown out like a garbage bag in the direction of two men. Fortunately, they caught me. Lucky me! They helped me get up and get my bag.

I was about to thank them when suddenly they touched my shoulder. It feels so weird as they massage it, like massaging a chicken before marinating it.

"Miss, how about you marry me instead?"

“Shut the fck up, bro. She’s mine!”

“How about we divide her? She is mine in the morning and she is yours in the evening?”

The other one laughed, as if he really liked the idea. “I never thought you were brilliant at this point!" they laughed, while rubbing my arm. I felt scared, especially as they gradually pulled me away. "Don't struggle, come with us..." they said to me.

I was going to scream for help when the handsome man intervened and took the man's hand off my shoulder.

He looked blankly at the men behind me and yelled, "Get lost!"

Am I dreaming right now?! Oh, God! His voice is so tender like a chicken — Wait! Why do I keep on putting chicken in everything I say? Oh well... But anyway, before I could thank my prince charming, I ended up losing consciousness from being so drunk.

As I regained my consciousness and opened my eyes, I suddenly felt a twinge in my sinuses.

Argh!

I decided to sit down and let my eyes adjust first because all I could see was too hazy for me to distinguish.

Where... Wtf? Where am I?! What's the matter?!

I looked around the room. I was stunned by what I was seeing right now. It is very clean and spacious. What place is this? This is definitely not my room. The room is too huge. Am I still in the hotel? But as I remember, the hotel room doesn’t look like this...

Wait — What time is it? Dad must be worried about me. For sure, dad is so done with me, I might get kicked out because of this! I immediately searched my bag and grabbed my phone.

Shit! It is already six in the morning, and in 30 minutes everyone at home will awaken.

I stood up immediately and looked out the window. Shit! I'm no longer at the hotel. Where the fck am I? I was surprised when the door abruptly opened and someone started speaking.

It was a man's voice asking, "Are you awake?"

I panicked and screamed, "Ah! Pervert!" I quickly ran under the covers in the bed, grabbed a pillow, and threw it at him. I cried out to the man in front of me, "Who are you?! What did you do to me?!"

I was nervous when he suddenly approached me and said, "Would you believe me if I told you that we did everything I wanted? You even seem satisfied with what we did earlier." I was taken aback by what he said.

I kicked him unexpectedly and hit his most valuable little bird down there. I blushed and lowered my face.

Shit!

Such an awkward situation. At this moment, all I want is to be swallowed into the ground.

He cried out in pain, "Ouch!" and, from the look on his face, it appeared to be a serious injury.

"Aren't you the one who was begging at me last night, asking me to marry you?" he said to me while holding his little bird.

FLASHBACK

"You are the most handsome man I have seen tonight… How about marrying me, Mr. Handsome?"

END OF FLASHBACK

“Ohh… Ththat one?” I didn’t know what to say, so I ended up bursting out laughing. “You really take that seriously? For God's sake bro, I am drunk! — Any...Anyways, I'm going home!" I shouted at him. I couldn't look into his eyes, so I immediately turned away.

He suddenly coughed, like he was trying to clear his throat. "Go back to your boss and tell him to stop sending girls to my bed; this trick won’t work on me."

"What are you talking about? What boss? What trick? Are you saying I'm a prostitute?!" I exclaimed angrily.

How dare he say that to me?! What an ugly jerk!

"Your face is too thick to speak such words. Me? Satisfied?! I am Chelsea Leigh Garcia and I'm not that low class of a lady if that's what you're thinking!" I said angrily. I grabbed some money from my bag and threw it in his face. "A thousand for this one night, think what you want to think, but I don't want to see your face again. Goodbye!" I quickly left that room.

Chelsea walked straight home to their house after leaving the Buenavista mansion. Chelsea arrived, but she was hesitant to ring the doorbell. "What if dad asked Mark to find me while I was away? What if he was here?" she questioned herself.

In spite of this, she promptly opened the door after gathering her courage. She didn't even bother to press the doorbell. Her sister and her fiancé were hugging as she opened the door and saw them. She immediately ran outside, but before he got far, her father suddenly called her.

"Chelsea Leigh ! Get back here! Where did you go last night?”

Her dad seems to have come from the garden. She wanted to continue walking and leave that house, but she couldn't, seeing how angry her dad was. She doesn’t have a choice but to return inside and face everyone, but before the conversation starts, Mark immediately leaves the house, not even looking at Chelsea.

"Chelsea, did you and Mark fight last night? We couldn't contact you last night and we found out that you wanted to cancel the marriage contract?" his father asked seriously.

Chelsea just looked at her sister, who was sitting next to her father, before answering, "Yes, dad." She answered straight forward.

"Go apologize to the Silva family right away; these kinds of marriage things can't be reversed. Have you even thought of that first before making a decision right away?!"

Chelsea’s sister was shocked hearing everything. She lowered her head and played with her nails because of how nervous she was.

"Dad! Mark and Maxine are hooking up, I saw it with my own eyes! Do you still expect me to apologize and continue the wedding as if nothing happened?!"

Because of what Chelsea said, her dad suddenly stopped, trying to sink everything in his mind. "Mark and Maxine? Is that true, Maxine? Is what your sister is saying true?" their father asked Maxine, but she didn't answer and seemed to avoid their father's gaze.

"That's why I don't want to continue the wedding, dad. I don’t want to waste my time marrying that kind of man. Let’s not joke ourselves thinking that everything will be okay and everything will work because it won’t!"

"I will talk to your sister thoroughly. And if everything you just said is true, I will send her to the US but the marriage will still happen. That is my decision. Remember, Chelsea, your marriage will grow both companies. Especially our company, you can't just throw it away. Think of it first. You are just shocked about whatever you are experiencing right now. But please, don’t ruin the plan…." her dad said, trying to convince her.

"Am I just a marriage tool, dad?" Chelsea tearfully asked.

"Tool? What do you think you are? You are my daughter, and you have the responsibility to help me run our company. So stop with all of those dramas. If you're going to ruin your marriage too, then you can get out of my house!"

"Fine! You were the one who said that. I will grant your wish, dad." Chelsea screamed as her tears began to surface. She left their home and took off running.

CHELSEA

Does my father actually view me in that way? Is he willing to use me solely for the sake of the business? What about me? Have I lost the ability to refuse requests for stuff I don't want? Am I not valuable enough to be treated with care first?

I have nothing. No family. No money. There is nowhere to go. Do I actually need to encounter this kind of circumstance in life? I just sobbed while walking and had no idea where to go.

I could feel the cold air. I'm getting cold, the sun is about to set and I need to find a place to stay or spend the night.

I started calling my friends, but none of them picked up. I had given up hope. I have no idea who to approach in this kind of situation. It seems that nobody is there for me when I am in need; perhaps that is simply the way life is for me. Am I unfortunate? Do I deserve this?

Suddenly, a red Lexus RC F pulled up next to me as I was beginning to lose hope. He slowly lowered the front window of his car. I was very surprised to see Mr. Maniac was the one who was driving it.

"What a coincidence. Destiny made us meet again," he said while smiling at me.

"It's you! What are you doing here?" I asked, looking innocent.

"Get in. I saved you last night and it's time you pay me back."

CHELSEA

We arrived in front of a ten storey building. What a huge building this is! As we got out of the car, suddenly there was a man approaching us and bowing his head as soon as he saw us.

What is wrong with this man?

"Follow me," Mr. Maniac ordered.

What did he mean when he indicated earlier that it was time for me to pay him? Will he offer me to the proprietor of this company? Oh no, what if he actually does sell me?

If the building's exterior is impressive, the interior will astound you even more. It is really inclusive. I examined the area as we passed each spot. He then pressed the tenth floor as we got into the elevator. Are we truly going to be the company's owner? When we got there, we went into an office.

"Wow!" I whispered in amazement. It is quite a large room for a normal employee. This must be the company's owner's office. Will he actually sell me to the owner? God! I'm growing anxious about what I'm thinking!

"Have you thought about it, Ms. Garcia?" Mr. Maniac asked in such a formal voice.

What's up with the mood swing? What makes him sit in the owner's chair, exactly? Are they close friends?

"...What?" I innocently asked him.

Did we discuss something that I don't recall? Or is he possibly trying to sell me? So, will he actually sell me?

"Hmm... You're going to do everything that I say. In short, you're going to obey me. As simple as that, Ms. Garcia," he said, and a slight grin showed on the side of his lips.

To be honest, Mr. Maniacs looks charismatic. I would have fallen in love with him if he wasn’t such an arrogant maniac. If only he wasn’t a pervert...

"Thank you so much for saving me the other day, but again, I am not that kind of woman. I am not an easy one." I said, confidently.

What does he think of me? Easy woman? Just because he is attractive doesn't mean he can have everything.

"But you thought I was an easy guy last night at the pub. Am I right?" he said to me.

I was shocked by what he said. After all, he does have a point. But I still won't agree.

He handed me something—a business card. [Red Chandler Buenavista CEO] I was shocked by what I read. It seems that the thickness of my face is gradually collapsing. I just want to be swallowed by the earth right now.

If you really look at it, the arrogant guy I tripped over last night at the bar is actually the CEO of this huge company… I can’t believe this is happening!

"I seriously apologize for my actions last night, Mr. Buenavista. I was drunk at the time, and you're someone of such high status, and because of that, I definitely shouldn't have been so careless. I'm really sorry." I bowed to apologize.

"Are you sure you're careless, Ms. Garcia?" he asked. It sounds like he is joking.

Well, I am not in a state to laugh right now. I just placed my head in a pillory. What a dumb move, Chels!

"Mr. Buenavista, I'm not joking. I am really sorry for what I did. So please, if we don’t have anything to talk about, I will leave now." I said, turning my back to leave when he suddenly spoke.

"If you think about it, you'll see that this is a very beneficial deal for you, Ms. Garcia. In fact, this is not for free. You will get paid monthly." I was stunned by what he said.

He was right. I need money now. There's nothing wrong with accepting his offer, but I can’t just agree to this arrogant pervert man. He approached the desk and seemed to be taking something. A document. He came to me and handed over the documents he took.

I was stunned by what I read. This is a marriage contract.

He put his hand to his lips, scratching it while he was in his deep thoughts, and suddenly smiled, looking over me. "You need money, I need a marriage certificate. Isn't this a good deal, Ms. Garcia?" he said. "I'll give you a high rate and you'll be my personal maid. Those are the conditions," he added.

I looked at the contract he gave me. I spent a minute thinking about it, but NO! "Thank you very much for the offer and for your help, but that doesn't mean you can insult my dignity. I am a woman and not just a woman!" I said as I dropped the contract into his table.

"Pfft" he said, and started laughing at what I said. "Do you think highly of yourself, Ms. Devon? If I wanted to insult you, there are countless ways, but I did not because that is not what I wanted right now."

"Then, what do you mean?" I asked.

He walked closer to me and suddenly pushed me against the wall. "Don't worry too much about it; it's just a contract; you need money and I need a marriage contract," he whispered to the side of my ear.

We are in an awkward position right now. He is too close to me. I just turned my head so that our eyes wouldn't meet.

"Just last night you were so brave. You have even gone so far to ask a random man to marry you, but now you look so scared." He whispered again, but now much closer.

My hair rose up as his breath landed on my neck. Alcohol makes people bold, doesn't he know that? I'm probably drunk enough to be brave enough to do things I can't do.

He just stared at me blankly and then left to go to his table. He signed the contract and handed it back to me.

"Here," he said, while handing over the signed contract. “And here is your card that you can use. You will need it in the future.”

I took the contract and suddenly the problems I was facing now came to my mind. This is such a huge amount of money. $1,751 and all I needed to do was be his maid and act as his wife. I need to be brave. This is the only way I can start over.

"I will agree to what you want to happen, but I have one condition..." I gasped.

"Okay. You raised your conditions, and I'll do mine as well. I want you to clean up your messy relationships. I don't want to be like you, surrounded by rumors." he said to me calmly.

What?! That's my condition too!

"I'd say the same thing to you!"

I immediately picked up the ballpoint pen and signed the contract. After I signed it, I just threw the pen behind my back and left. Do you think you will be able to make me do things just because I signed as your maid? Tss! I will use my wife's card then… I won’t let you look down on me!

RED

She just threw away the ballpoint pen she used and stormed out the door. What a brat! I suppose it's time to put on my husband's act...

A few minutes passed, and I felt like drinking coffee. I took my phone and called Ms. Garcia, or should I say, my wife.

“Hello?” she answered on the other line.

"Make me a cup of coffee. No sugar." I ordered.

“What?! Are you being serious right now?! Why didn't you tell me earlier? I just got on the bus!” she said in a very angry manner.

"Then get off and run back here, and also, I really want to entertain the guests with the best sushi from the Japanese store in the city. It has to be here in half an hour!"

“Are you serious?! That's too far. That's in the south of the city. Even one hour is not enough to go back after buying it!”

"Make it happen!" I responded.

She then dropped the call, and I have no idea if she really obeyed my orders. An hour passed and she still hadn't arrived. I was about to call her when the door abruptly opened and spit out my wife, who was sweating while carrying what I had ordered.

"You're late," I said.

She just looked at me and placed the sushi orders on the table.

"I have a meeting this afternoon, and at 3:40, I want you to serve 20 bags of afternoon tea from the kitchen."

She has a different expression now that you can see it. Evidently, she was really irate. She appeared inflated from the mounting rage on her face, as if she were puffing up. She then went off again. Stamping her feet loudly.

What a cry baby…

It's just as much fun as I expected. It looks like I will enjoy being with her by my side. I immediately called my secretary to tell the Garcia family the news.

Meanwhile, the day ended with Chelsea doing everything for Mr. Buenavista. When it was over, she went home to take a rest. When she entered the house, she saw her sister, Maxine Faye Garcia, her youngest step sibling, in the living room.

Maxine suddenly stood up and faced Chelsea and said, "You just broke up with Mark and now you're flirting with the CEO? You're such an embarrassment!"

"I'm tired. I don't want to mess with you!" Chelsea answered.

Maxine was very annoyed when Chelsea turned her back and continued walking. She was about to yell at her when their father suddenly arrived.

"Chelsea, my daughter, where is your boyfriend? Didn't he come here with you?" their father asked happily.

Chelsea frowned at what she heard coming from her father.

"Isn't my sister mad at you, dad, because of what happened earlier?" Maxine murmured.

Their father just glared at her. Making Maxine stop and keep on silent.

"How about we invite your boyfriend to the house, Chelsea?" he asked his daughter, full of joy.

"Let's talk about this later. I'm very tired. I need to rest." Chelsea said and continued to her room.

"Dad, you told my sister to apologize to Mark's family. For sure, my sister is mad at you right now," Maxine said to her father.

Their father ignored her and suddenly left.

"How did she end up with a CEO that quickly? She just left home earlier, and now she's got herself a CEO…"

Maxine wondered to herself while feeling jealous and envious of what was happening to her sister’s life.

The tragedy in Chelsia’s life started. Her life was in the hands of the most evil person she had ever known, Mr. Buenavista. He orders her hour after hour, and because of the contract they signed, the girl can't whine or complain. All she could do was to think about the benefit that it would give her after the contract ends.

"You are moving very slowly. I just asked you to take out the trash, and you took one hour for that. Just ask the maids where the trash bin is!” Red complained.

This is now the life of Chelsia after days of being the personal maid of the great Mr. Buenavista.

Chelsea wanted to punch him in the face, but she couldn't do it because of the contract. She then took a deep breath to calm herself. "Yes sir," she replied, and stormed out the door.

RED

It was so obvious that she started to get so annoyed by everything I asked her. I just want to burst out laughing whenever I see her nose, which almost releases smoke because of how furious she is. I just gave her a simple order. Why is she whining like a baby? I think I should be strict with her from now on. I pay her to work and not to have a vacation in my mansion and enjoy her days.

An hour has passed and she still hasn't returned. How much trash did she take out? I only ordered that girl to throw away the garbage. How about I call her to do the laundry? Oh, maybe because she was so diligent, she went straight to the dump site to throw away the trash. I couldn’t stop laughing at my own thoughts. Suddenly, the door opened and my wife, who was frowning, entered. She's really cute when she's angry.

"Why did it take you so long to come back? I only ordered you to take out the trash and it took you an hour." I said, making a serious face. "Forget it, just pick me some white roses from the garden. You can probably do that right, can't you?"

She didn't answer and immediately left my room.

I smiled and peered out the window to see what her reaction would be when she got to the garden. The dog house for my pet bulldog, Blaze, is also there. I saw her enter the garden, and it only took a few minutes for her to scream.

"AAAHH BASTARD!" she shouted when Blaze suddenly barked at her.

I took a deep breath and muttered to myself, "Ahh, so interesting. How much longer can she endure?"

After an hour has passed, she is back here in my room. She then placed the white roses she had picked on the table. It looks like a storm has passed through it. It looks so ugly. I immediately stood up and approached her.

I held her hand, looked at it carefully, and said, "You don't have a hand disability. Why can’t you do your work properly? How come the flowers you picked are uglier than the trash in the trash can?” I asked her.

I stared at her seriously and pushed her to the corner. "The time will come when you will also take care of Blaze and you're going to be his female owner, so if I were you, change your behavior and Blaze might get more insane than he is now."

Time passed and dinner was near. Mr. Buenavista ordered Chelsea to cook for dinner. She got so worried since she had never cooked a decent meal before. All she could do was fry an egg. After an hour in the kitchen, Chelsea showed up in the dining room, carrying the meal she had prepared for Mr. Buenavista.

Mr. Buenavista looks satisfied with seeing her show up and not setting the kitchen on fire. But when Chelsea placed the meal in front of Mr. Buenavista, he couldn’t control himself but to raise his right eyebrow.

Mr. Buenavista was so annoyed while looking at his plate. "You don't know how to pick flowers, you don't seem to be able to take care of Blaze either, and when it comes to cooking, you can only serve pork?"

"I'm sorry… I had never prepared a meal before and all I could do was fry an egg…” Chelsea mumbled.

step step step step

Suddenly, a beautiful lady entered the dining area. She was wearing a black dress and sparkling jewelry. Looking sophisticated and elegant. Her eyes speak power.

"Mom?" Mr. Buenavista asked, and immediately stood up to kiss his mother’s hand. “I thought you were still in London. How come you suddenly came back? You should have told me so that I could pick you up at the airport.”

"What’s all the racket? Where did all your manners go? I received the news that you brought a woman into this mansion. Where is this woman? I want to see her…”

Chelsea immediately greeted her while the nervousness was evident on her face. "Hello, mother," she said softly while bowing her head.

“Mother? Who are you to call me mother? — Wait! Is this the woman you brought home, son?” Madam Buenavista asked Red. He then answered his mother with a nod. “You were joking, right?”

“Mother, I am Chelsea—”

“Shut up! Don’t call me mother. I don’t remember ever having such an uneducated looking daughter, and who are you to call me mother, you lowlife!” Madam Buenavista screamed at Chelsea’s face.

Chelsea was so embarrassed by the sudden scenario that she didn’t expect it to happen. She didn’t expect that Madam Buenavista would behave like this. From what Madam Buenavista said, she obviously knew how much she hated her.

Madam Buenavista was ready to take Chelsea out of the mansion when Red immediately stood up and blocked his mother. "She's definitely not your daughter; she's your daughter inlaw." Red calms his mother.

Madam Buenavista was stunned by what her son said. There was incredible tension inside that room. Suddenly, Madam Buenavista started acting like she was about to cry, "My son is really grown up and dare not even tell me that he is getting married. Do I have no right in your life anymore? And why did you choose such a woman? Are you really messing with me, son? Why did you choose this kind of woman? She looks like an assistant! Do you want to embarrass me in front of my amigas?"

Red held Chelsea’s hand and smiled. He comforted his wife because he felt that Chelsea needed him now. "Although Chelsea has low status, I like her. Even if you don't like her, mom, please don't insult her. She is a nice woman." Mr. Buenavista said, defending Chelsea from his mom, but that only caused Madam Buenavista to get furious even more.

Suddenly the lady picked up a glass and threw it on the floor in a rage.

"You, you—you are going to treat Sofia like this? Son, that girl is nothing to Sofia. Sofia waited for you for so many years, and you're going to do this to her?" Madam Buenavista couldn’t control her anger and screamed.

Mr. Buenavista grinned and touched Chelsea’s face. “Don’t listen to her. You are the only woman in my life,” he said, looking at Chelsea. “Mom, please mind your behavior. You should not treat my wife like this. You are embarrassing me in front of her.”

Madam Buenavista took a deep breath. "Son, everything I'm telling you is just for you. It's just for your own good. That kind of woman with a small family background, go ahead, tell me how you can benefit from her family? I bet they can’t even offer land or property!”

"Are you saying that I have to rely on women in order to achieve anything, mother?" Mr. Buenavista looked at his mom with a blank expression.

Madam Buenavista was caught off guard by what her son uttered. She stayed quiet for about a minute. "I don't care, I don't want you to marry that woman. Quickly divorce and I will bring Sofia here. She is worthy of being your woman!" She was so annoyed that she immediately left the dining room and slammed the door, making a loud noise to the mansion.

CHELSEA

I didn't expect him to defend me from his mom earlier. He was so arrogant when it was just me and him, but when his mother came… everything about him changed. He was like a knight in shining armor with a stupid personality. Is he putting on an act? I'm here now on the sofa, hugging the pillow while staring at nowhere.

I was surprised when someone suddenly spoke. "Water," he said.

"Ah? What?" I asked him. I can see that he has just finished taking a shower; his hair is still wet and it is dripping on the floor.

"Are you stupid? To the point that you don't even know what water is? Nevermind, go take a bath." he ordered.

Why do people here get so annoyed so quickly? I was just asking him what he was saying. He just said "water!" How am I supposed to understand that? I am getting back to what I said earlier. He was not a knight in shining armor, he was a beast! Hmph! Such a bad attitude. His kindness was just a trial, now it's expired.

I stood up and went straight to the bathroom. It took me one hour to finish my bath. When I came out of the bathroom, I saw him in the study area reading a book. He is fun to watch. It was like watching an angel read. I just shook my head from what I was thinking,

Eww!

Why am I falling in love with this jerk! He was just handsome, and that’s it. No more to be proud of!

"Do I have to live here?" I asked.

He didn't turn around and suddenly answered. "Then why did you come over here? To steal?" he said in a serious tone while his eyes were fixed on what he was reading.

Huh? What? I'm just asking if I have to live here. Sometimes I really can't reach this person's mental capacity.

"As long as Mom is here and will not leave the mansion, you can sleep there or on the floor," he said, while pointing at the sofa.

What?! Is he serious?! He's going to make me sleep on the sofa?! Wow! What a gentle jerk!

CHELSEA

I am now in the bathroom, facing the mirror. I just finished being ordered around by that demon. I wasn't even given a break. What does he think of me? A robot? I don't know how much I can handle and how much I can forgive that person, but I have to be strong.

"Damn you, Red Chandler Buenavista!" I yelled angrily at the mirror.

It's possible that his mother had a lot of problems while carrying him. He acts exactly the same way now that he is old because that is why she had him. He did, however, acquire a few of her attitudes. They are both a pain in the neck. Indeed, like a mother, like a son.

I straightened myself up and posed like Mr. Pervert. I turned to look in the mirror and tried to sound like him by raising my voice. I cough while synchronizing the tone of my voice to get his voice just right.

"Although Chelsea has low status, I like her. Even if you don't like her, mom, please don't insult her. She is a nice woman." I turned to my right and spoke softly to the mirror as if I were speaking to Madam Buenavista.

I imitated his fake sweet voice and said, "Alright love, come here, eat some more. You're so thin. You need to eat a lot to get fat."

I immediately looked to my left and mimicked Mr. Pervert's angry facial expression after finishing my speech.

"Heh, how could it happen that what I'm going to feed you has poison? Do I have to taste it so you know it's not poisonous? Eat!"

"I'm not going to throw money at you just so you can enjoy life; go to work!" I screamed angrily at the mirror.

I burst out laughing when I was done acting like that jackass. He is always a fake person. It's not right for him to act as if he cares about me. I might be able to accept it better if he would just admit that he is a demon. It suits his name, Reddemon, Redemon! Pfft!

"Are you having fun?" I was surprised by the man's voice behind me. I looked back and saw Mr. Pervert, or should I say, Redemon.

Did he hear what I said? Shit! This demon doesn’t even know how to knock. What a real pervert!

"Ah—ah no! I'm not doing anything. Why should I enjoy it?" I said, acting as if nothing had happened.

He suddenly walked closer to me, and when he got closer, he whispered something in my ear. "Mom will be checking my wife's cooking skills in a moment, and if she doesn't like it, my love, then half a month of your payment will be gone. Understood?" he said softly.

What?! Is he even serious? Even if I have worldclass chef skills, I still can't satisfy his mom. She obviously hates me! What should I do now?!

"...Got it…" I answered, even though I really had no idea how his mom was going to like my cooking.

"Seems like you're pretty confident. Then head to Maine's Bake Shop and get some freshly baked cookies. Mom loves to eat them. You might catch her soft side if you gave her that. Thank me later," he said to me and winked at the same time.

Pervert! Asshole! Bastard! I looked at him evilly, shouted in my head, and walked out. Because of this man, I may simply pass away from anger.

THREE DAY AFTER

They had been doing the same thing all day long for three days. Fight here, fight there. Order here, order there. But like before, Chelsea still couldn't do anything about her husband's servile treatment.

While everyone was busy with all of their chores, a beautiful woman entered the mansion of the Buenavista. She has a porcelainlike complexion and a curvaceous body that shows whenever she walks. She has long chocolate hair, and she is wearing a pink floral dress that seems like a highend type of dress. Chelsea suddenly notices her entering the living room. She stood up and approached the woman. She was about to ask her who she was when the woman suddenly started talking.

"Hello, are you Ms. Chelsea Leigh Garcia?" Her voice was so modest and elegant.

Chelsea was surprised by her question. She didn’t even know who that woman was, but the woman knew her. “Hi… May I know who—” she wasn’t able to finish her words when the woman suddenly interjected.

"I always heard your name, and after finally seeing you today, Ms. Chelsea is even better than I thought," she said while smiling brightly.

Chelsea felt an awkward atmosphere with the woman’s actions toward her. “...Thanks?” she murmured awkwardly.

"Sofia? What are you doing here?" a voice suddenly interjected.

The two were surprised to hear a voice behind them. As they looked in the direction of the voice, they saw Red going down the stairs. Sofia’s expression suddenly changed into a more cheerful one, and she immediately approached and hugged Red tightly.

“Red, I miss you so much! I heard that Auntie has returned from the state, so I came just to visit her,” she mumbled while hugging Red.

Red immediately removed the woman's hands and went to Chelsea’s side. Sofia looked at Red in surprise at what he did.

“Red, aren’t you even going to welcome me? I just came back and this is how you will treat me?” Sofia asked. The sadness can be seen in her eyes. She looks at Chelsea with a blank expression.

CHELSEA

Here I am now in front of two people who seem to be making a scene in the most dramatic movie I have ever seen in my life. Cringe! She turned out to be Sofia, the girl that Redemon’s mom mentioned. It turns out that Redemon was lucky enough, and he even attracted a beautiful woman like Sofia, who also seems very rich. What a catch!

Sofia's question annoyed him, and he suddenly grabbed me by the waist. "She's not here, so if you have nothing else to do here... you can now leave. I don't want Chelsea to misunderstand something between us, so stop being so clingy around me anymore. Can’t you see that my wife is here? Stop being childish and insensitive, Sofia."

Uhm, this is so awkward! What kind of drama do they have? Gosh, I need to get out of this. I looked at Sofia and it looked like she was about to cry.

"I… I understand. I am so sorry, Red… I am so sorry I bothered you guys. Chelsea, I’m sorry for being insensitive, I just really missed him… I'm leaving..." Her tears flowed down her cheeks while looking at the floor.

“Sofia is the guest I invited over. How dare you talk to her like that?! If you think she is interfering with you two, then you better kick me out too!”

I was shocked to hear Madam Buenavista’s voice. She was furious while looking at me. Why me? I didn’t even do anything... That's it. Perfect timing. Redemon's mom makes a grand entrance again. I really don't know what kind of trip people have in this mansion. If only they really knew about the contract. I took a deep sigh and composed myself to get ready for another drama.

Madam Buenavista walked toward Sofia and took her hand. "That girl can live here while Sofia can't visit?" she shouted while pointing her finger at me.

God! Why does she always point everything at me? Why can’t he blame his son for his stupid decision?

I can now feel the tension between Redemon and Madam Buenavista. I looked at Redemon and he looked so annoyed. What is the problem with him? Why doesn't he like Sofia? She is such a beautiful woman. They are a match.

Madam Buenavista suddenly snatched my hand from Redemon and pushed me aside. She grabbed Redemon’s hand and pulled him closer to Sofia. What the fuck was that?!

“Son, why don’t you take Sofia to go shopping today? You two just met again after a year. You should go and have time together!” Madam Buenavista said, but Redemon’s face turned angrier than before. His eyebrows are more furrowed.

"Red, I know a place. They make foods that you like. Shall we go together?" Sofia asked with a smile.

But then Redemon suddenly went to my side, and I was surprised when Redemon suddenly picked me up like a newlywed.

"Sorry, I would rather be with my wife."

And just like that, we left without him even looking back at them. God! This is so embarrassing!

Red left the scene while carrying Chelsea, leaving his mom and Sofia behind. His actions made Madam Buenavista furious and she screamed like a monster.

"No way, Red Chandler! Get back here!”

Sofia immediately approached her auntie. “Auntie, don’t be angry. That could be bad for your health.”

Sofia tried to calm her auntie down, but she couldn’t stop her tears from flowing. Madam Buenavista looked at her worriedly. “Don’t be sad, hija. My son is just blinded by love. I am sure that won’t last long. There will be a time when he will see how deserving you are for him. You don’t have to worry about anything because I will help you…”

Sofia couldn’t stop her emotions and burst out crying. "Thank you, auntie, but you really don't need to. I ignored everything, even put down my pride and selfrespect, and I chased him for so many years, but he would rather...."

"Shhh, don't cry. I understand. Don't worry, Red has always been obedient. I can also separate the two of them, and when that happens, I will make him marry you." Madam Buenavista said.

"Auntie, you don't need to do that…" she replied shyly while her tears were falling.

Meanwhile, Red and Chelsea reached the bedroom. Red immediately dropped Chelsea on the bed and stretched out his arms.

Red complained, "Why are you so heavy? Go on a diet! It feels like I lifted a pig!"

"Damn it! Are you calling me fat? You're weak. You should do a workout!" Chelsea shouted.

"I've been too nice to you recently, haven't I? Ms. Garcia, I never dreamed of taking care of a maid," Red said without any expression.

Chelsea immediately got up from lying down. "...I apologize, Mr. Buenavista."

As the days passed by, Chelsea and Red didn’t get along well. They are like dogs and cats in the same house. One morning, while Chelsea was having coffee peacefully because the demon who always ordered her to do some errands was not in the mansion and was busy in the office, she was surprised when the maid entered her room.

"Miss, someone is looking for you downstairs,” the maid said.

Chelsea looked at her in surprise. "Did you ask who?"

“No, miss…” she answered.

“What does she look like then?” Chelsea asked.

The maid scratches her nape as she tries to remember what the woman looks like. She looks quite like you, Miss, but she has long red hair. We are almost the same height. She also makes me hurry to call you…” The maid answered while seeming to be in a hurry.

It was obvious from Chelsea’s face that she knew who had visited the mansion.

“I see. I will be there. Please tell her to wait for me in the living room, and also tell her to not touch anything.”

"Yes, miss," the maid said, and immediately left to take the guest to the living room.

Before leaving, Chelsea finished the coffee she was drinking. When she went down to the living room, she wasn’t that surprised to see her sister sitting on the sofa. She looks like she owned the house based on how she sits on the sofa.

"Maxine? What are you doing here?" Chelsea crossed her arms as she approached her sister.

"Sister!" she shouted happily and immediately stood up to approach Chelsea to kiss her, but Chelsea suddenly avoided her.

Maxine straightened up as if she was ashamed of what she had done. "Aren't you happy to see me, sister? Aren't you going to invite me for a drink or a tour of the Buenavistas' mansion?"

CHELSEA

What is she doing here? It seems like she needs something from me. But I don’t care about her whereabouts; I have to get her out of here. It would not be good if Madam Buenavista saw her.

"Is brotherinlaw not here, sister? I will be holding a party at home in a few days. So I thought I'd invite my brotherinlaw so mom and dad could meet him, especially my friends!" she said happily.

“Really? A party for what?” I asked.

“Well, I just want to have a party, and isn’t it good timing? We could welcome him to the family!”

"Are you really going to invite my husband to the party, or maybe you're going to invite him to bed, hmm? Which one, Maxine?" I gave her a sarcastic smile as I stare at her.

Her eyes widened and she was stunned by what I said. "You! How could you say that?!" she furiously shouted.

Guilty!

"Before, you set up this kind of trap to deceive Mark. Now you will use your same trick to hook up with my husband?" I asked her angrily.

I really can't control this slut anymore. I wonder how we became bloodrelated when all that she wants is to get everything I have.

"Chelsea! Please don’t say that… You know I didn't mean what happened to Mark, right? I— I swear I don't think of my brotherinlaw that way,” she claimed to defend herself.

Hah! What a fake little slut! Does she think she can manipulate me with those kinds of words? I am done!

"Please leave now, Maxine. I don't have time to talk to you and I'm busy right now..." I answered sluggishly.

I called the maid and signed her to approach us. "Could you please accompany her out of the mansion?" I said to make her escort my sister out of the mansion.

"Heh, are you afraid that I will steal your husband? I just came to send an invitation but you are accusing me of being a thief and a bitch who will steal him."

"I didn't think that you would steal my husband, all I could think of was that you would flirt with him. I never mentioned anything about stealing, but you said it yourself, so that is indeed your intention..." I smirk as I look at her. “If she refuses to leave, call the guards to throw her away!” I ordered the maid before I turned around to leave. I even saw the maid approach her and escorted her out of the mansion before I could finally climb the stairs.

It was already afternoon when Redemon got home. He was carrying a paper bag and handed it to me. What could this be? Giving me a gift is not in his dictionary unless there is an order in return.

"Wwhat is this?" I asked innocently when he handed me the paper bag.

"This evening, I'll be attending a charity event, and you'll be joining me."

I was stunned by what he said. Is he serious? Will he really take me? Shit! I'm not ready to show my face to other people and introduce myself as his wife…

"What's the matter? Why do you react like that? Have you forgotten about your obligations?" he asked.

The contract... It is stated in the contract and in our agreement that I have to fulfill my duties and responsibilities as his wife outside the company. What else can I do?

I left and went straight to my room. I took out the boxes inside the paper bags and I was shocked to see how beautiful they were. Is this what a noble lady wears? Will he really make me wear these? A blue offshoulder mermaid gown was inside the paper bag. I put it on and I almost suffocated because it was so tight on me. Why do rich people tend to wear tight clothes? These kinds of clothes could almost kill a person.

I still have a hard time putting it on; it's stuck on my waist and it's hard to lift. Why is there no zipper? This is really stressing me out.

I was surprised when the door suddenly opened and Redemon entered.

"Are you wearing the gown or are you going to sew it?! Hurry u–up...." We looked at each other confused. He also stopped and looked at my body. Until now, I still haven't worn the gown, and I'm only wearing a bra.

There was total silence between us, but when I just realized the situation, I immediately screamed at the top of my lungs.

"GET OUT!" I screamed in shock, and I immediately covered my boobs.

Not to brag, but I really do have healthy breasts. Well, I got it from my mom.

"GET OUT!" Chelsea shouted, and Red immediately closed the door.

He was blushing and still standing behind the door. Red’s heart was still pounding and his ears started to turn red.

"I’m lucky..." Red smiled and whispered to himself.

When the two arrived at the hotel, Chelsea immediately got out of the car. Red noticed it and immediately grabbed his wife's hand. He was planning to help her get out, but Chelsea had already done the honor for herself.

"If you don't want to be in the news tomorrow, don't make such an old face." He whispered to Chelsea while entering the venue.

"Well, if you learn to knock on the door before entering, then I won't make you worry," Chelsea answered angrily.

"Don't think so highly of yourself; that kind of body hurts my eyes," Red replied gruffly while simply observing Chelsea. Chelsea rolled her eyes as they continued walking.

CHELSEA

What did he just say?! What a jerk! My most curvaceous body is one of the things that I am proud to have. I inherited it from my mom! How dare he say such a thing?! This man should be thankful that I agreed to this agreement. The great Chelsea Leigh Garcia agreed to be his wife, what a lucky man!

We were already at the venue and were looking for a place to sit when suddenly someone almost bumped into me. The man was still carrying wine, and luckily I was able to avoid it.

"Oops, my bad. I'm sorry. I wasn't careful." he said and looked at me before leaving.

What was that? Weird…

We found a place to sit and there were too many people. I also see more coming. Maybe this event is really such an important event. We are like watching an opera.

"Thank you very much for coming to this charity event. We guarantee that all donations will go to the Association for Disabled Children. Now, the party officially begins."

The event has already started and with the number of things they are bidding on, I am already feeling sleepy. What time does it end? I want to go home and sleep in my bed. I miss my bed.

I covered my mouth and stifled a yawn. How much longer do I have to wait for this to end?

"1 million, any other bidders?" the MC shouted at the front.

What?! Are they serious? 1 million for a vase? That vase looks like an adult's chamber pot. The rich are really bad at having so much money that they just waste it on useless things even though they won't use it. But the money they raise will go to the disabled children, not bad, at least they helped.

"Congratulations to Mr. Lee for taking the Ancient Vase from China followed by...." shouted the mc.

I looked at the source of the voice and narrowed my eyes as I tried to remember him. Ahh wait isn't that the guy who almost ran into me earlier?

CHELSEA

"The next item is a diamond ring weighing 8.20 carats. Let's start the bidding. The bidding starts at 300,000" said the MC on stage.

I was amazed by what I saw. It is very beautiful, and the rock is huge. I don't know how high I can bid, but if it's less than that, I can probably use my salary in advance to get it.

"600,000"

I was surprised when Redemon suddenly spoke. What? Will he bid? But he was looking at me while saying his price. I guess he noticed that I liked that ring. Will he get it for me?

"800,000!" the old man shouted in front.

"1 million!" Redemon shouted back.

Is he even serious?! 1 million for a ring?! This man is crazy.

"1.1 million," said a beautiful lady who was obviously rich because she was wearing an elegant dress with matching fur on her neck.

"1.2 million!" Redemon shouted in annoyance.

This one is really a fighter; he doesn't want to lose. It's 1.2 million. Maybe I won't be able to pay that anymore. That's why I immediately stopped him while holding his shoulder.

I whispered in his ear. "Let it go. Don't go for it, I can't afford that much money."

He just stared at me and frowned. "Quiet, are you going to let people think that I can't afford to buy that stone for my wife?" he whispered back and I could sense how furious he was right now.

I was stunned by what he said. It turns out that he just doesn't want to be embarrassed in front of other people. I thought he was buying it for me because he knew I liked it. After all, he only cares about his image.

The MC exclaimed enthusiastically while still clapping, "1.2 million! Doesn't anyone want to chase more? Okay, going once, going twice, going three times! Congratulations to Mr. Buenavista for successfully bidding for 1.2 million."

"Mr. Buenavista seems to have a happy day today. He spent a large amount on a ring for his beautiful wife. I wonder how many ladies will feel jealous of what he did!" He even said it jokingly. "Mr. Buenavista, can we ask your wife, why did she take an interest in this ring?" he asked with a smile while looking at me.

"Go ahead," Redemon replied.

Suddenly, he got closer to my ear and whispered. "Say whatever you want, as long as you don't embarrass me, my wife."

I just rolled my eyes as I stood up and smiled at everyone. The lights suddenly turned dim and there was a spotlight that turned in my direction. What does he think of me? Stupid? Watch and learn how I will impress you tonight, Redemon.

"Well, if I remember correctly, that ring is known as White Envy. It was designed by a famous jeweler for his wife. 08/20 is his wife's birthday. That's why he used 8.20 carats in it. After seeing it tonight, it immediately caught my attention. Thank you to my wonderful husband, because he was able to get it for me. Thank you, love…" I answered with a raised forehead. They all seemed amazed at my words.

I heard Redemon whisper something in my ear when I went back to my seat. "Not bad," he said.

After the event, all the guests were sent to the dining area to eat. I was left alone here at Redemon’s table. He said he was just going to talk to some of his business partners. I was about to eat the chocolate cake when suddenly someone spoke behind me.

"Lady Buenavista, is this your first time attending this party?"

I turned to the voice of the man behind me. He seemed familiar to me, but I couldn't remember.

"Yes, it's my first time. Do I know you?" I asked curiously as I narrowed my eyes and stared at him.

"I'm Mr. Lee, I bumped into you earlier, I'm sorry for that, I hope you weren't startled." He calmly answered.

Meanwhile, while Mr. Lee and Chelsea were having time to talk together, an evil stare was directed at them. It was Red who was staring at them from a distance. It seems like he doesn’t like how Mr. Lee approached his wife.

"Seems like someone is getting jealous…" a man said.

Red looked at his back. "Christian?" Red asked.

He is Christian Thaddeus Javier, Red's best friend. He possessed a striking appearance that may have helped him stand out in a crowd. He was attractive. He was fair, nearly white. His lighttoned face contrasted brilliantly with his unfathomable, goldenbrown eyes. If you stare into his eyes for a while, you could become lost in his eyes since they were so expressive and profound.

"Looks like your wife and Mr. Lee are getting along," Christian said, looking like he was teasing Red.

Red looked at him and seemed interested in what he said. "You know him?" he asked.

"He was a gifted musician who had been living in another country. He received a major award last year and only returned to the country a few months ago, so it's understandable that you are unfamiliar with him," he answered while drinking wine.

Suddenly, Red walked closer to his wife and left Christian alone. Christian didn't pay attention to him anymore and just sat at a table with a beautiful woman sitting on it.

"Mr. Lee, please allow me to speak with my wife for a moment." Red smiled and held Chelsea’s waist.

"Go ahead," he replied with a smile.

Red only gave Mr. Lee a quick smile before taking Chelsea's hand. He took Chelsea's hand and walked her to the balcony before releasing it.

"Is Miss Garcia really in such a hurry to find a new home?" he asked seriously while staring into Chelsea’s eyes.

"Huh? What are you talking about? Am I not allowed to talk to another man now? Don't take it too far, Mr. Buenavista!" Chelsea said angrily.

Red moved away from Chelsea to get some air before she faced him again and spoke. "Miss Garcia is more talented than her younger sister if she can get a brilliant musician to be her husband," Red responded sarcastically.

Chelsea was annoyed by what he said. "If you don't trust me, find a girl you can trust!" Chelsea said and walked away. Before she could leave, she turned her back and looked at Red. "Ahh, by the way, if you don't have anything good to say, then I'll be leaving first."

Red was left alone on the balcony. His face was clearly annoyed by the fight between him and Chelsea. When Chelsea left, she went to the fountain and sat there first. She was so annoyed to the point that she picked up a stone and threw it somewhere.

CHELSEA

"Bastard! People who admire you must be blind." I said angrily. That Redemon is really annoying. He was a pain in the neck.

I am currently at the fountain right now. I just want to take a break first from this new world that I've entered. I didn’t belong here... Why does he get so angry like that? Is it because Mr. Lee suddenly talked to me? He is a narrowedheaded man!”

I was about to pick up another stone when my phone suddenly rang.

BUZZZZZ

It's a notification. A text message from my sister. What does she want this time?

While I was reading her message, I suddenly felt like my heart was about to pop out. I need to go home now!

I immediately called Redemon and when he picked up, ".....I'll be right back. If you have something to say, just say it later.” I said before hanging up the call, without even waiting for his reply.

I took a taxi right away after leaving the hotel. Because there wasn't much traffic, I arrived home fast. As soon as I arrived home, I immediately went to my father's room. I ran into my stepmother and my sister Maxine. They were sitting outside my father's room on the sofa.

"Where's Dad?" I immediately asked.

"It took you a long time to come. Dad is already asleep." Maxine responded.

I was surprised when my stepmother suddenly stood up and came to me. "Chelsea, your sister’s birthday is next month. You have to go to the party. Bring Mr. Buenavista too, because I haven't met my soninlaw yet." she said softly.

She is Safara Garcia, my stepmother. He was my father's second wife when my mother died.

"Of course, I will bring my husband here, but on the anniversary of my mom's death. I want him to meet my mom." I seriously replied.

"Sister! What's with your attitude? You act like that because you just married the CEO of a large company!" Maxine shouted angrily.

Safara immediately stopped her dearest daughter. "Ah—eh, that's not my intention, hija. I just wanted to take the opportunity and get everyone acquainted. You probably won't let your dad be sad and embarrassed, right?"

They are both fakes. They really are like mother and daughter. They have the same attitude, good at manipulating people, but not me. They believed they could force me to their will. What a joke!

CHELSEA

I'm currently in the park. I came here right away to be by myself. I need some fresh air to breathe. It was 11 o'clock before I realized what time it was.

To calm Redemon down and prevent him from becoming particularly irate at me tomorrow, I texted him. I said that I had an emergency at home and couldn't leave.

I started crying when I submitted my message. I recalled what had happened at home just before I left.

FLASHBACK

Ah—eh, that's not my intention, hija. I just wanted to take the opportunity and get everyone acquainted. You probably won't let your dad be sad and embarrassed, right?"

"Enough! Why didn't you show up when my dad needed you if you genuinely care about him? Do you really believe I was unaware that you had taken items from the house and taken them to your parents' home? You! Plus, you are the cause of daddy's business slowly failing! You have only managed to ruin my family and everything we own!" I screamed as I looked at her.

She raised her hand and was about to give me a slap but then I stood there like I wasn’t scared of her and gave her a look.

"If you dare to touch me then go on, but I am warning you. I can easily make your life worse than a rat’s life…" I said as I challenged her gaze.

She was stunned by what I said and backed away as if she couldn't believe what I said.

"Chelsea Leigh Garcia! What are you talking about?! After you achieve high status because of your husband, you will not start to act like that?"

Maxine approached her mom. "Hasn't she been like this for a long time, mommy? I told you, mommy, that we shouldn't waste effort on her. She was like that because no one loves her! I doubt that brotherinlaw really loves her…”

END OF FLASHBACK

My heart was aching as I tried to stop my tears from falling. This kind of feeling was the worst thing that I experienced. I don’t have anyone by my side. They are right, I am alone. This feeling is very difficult. Alone and without a partner in everything. I don't even have anyone close to me at times like this... My tears are starting to fall again.

"Chelsea? It’s you! What's wrong? Why are you crying?"

I was shocked by the man's voice. When I looked up, It was Mr. Lee. What is he doing here at this hour? I quickly wiped my tears.

"Hhuh? Mr. Lee, is that really you?..." I tearfully asked the man in front of me.

"If you're upset, don't keep it to yourself, can you tell me what's bothering you? It's fine, I won't say anything else. I'll keep it a secret." He promised.

I couldn't see his face well because of the tears in my eyes and it was really dark here in the park. I laughed at what he said. "Pfft! I don't want to be bashed by your fans. Besides, I didn't expect you to be interested in other people's problems." I said while trying to calm myself. It's embarrassing that he even saw me in this situation.

"Don't worry, I won't let them bash you." He answered jokingly.

He sat down and appeared really serious about talking to me. Is he genuinely curious? I don't want to stir up trouble with others.

"Do you know, when I was 14 years old I was sent to the International School of Music to continue my studies. At that time I was very young and I was not that good at English. Also because of me being Asian, I have been bullied by my classmates and my studies have not been going well..." I was surprised by his sudden telling of his past.

"Huh?" That's all I said out of surprise.

There was a moment of silence between us. He seems to be thinking very deeply. Does he have a problem?

"Didn't anyone help you during those times?" I asked him.

"The number of Filipinos who can enroll in an International School of Music is quite limited. I didn't have time to make friends since I was focused on finishing my studies so I could return to the Philippines. I was also afraid that my family would worry so I didn't tell or tell them what happened to me. I just hid it and kept it to myself, I almost had depression because of what happened." He said. I can feel the sadness in his voice.

I did not know that the genius musician Mr. Lee had this experience. I actually feel sorry for him.

"Ahmm... Are... Are you okay?....." I asked shyly.

"I'm fine now, thanks for asking. At that time I met a nun from a nearby church, and she said to me... If I had nothing to vent my anger and hurt in my heart, then I can talk to the grass, flowers, trees, and even a trash can. I've tried it and you know how effective it is! It really helped me a lot." He said with a smile.

I laughed at his story. Can we really talk about those things without even looking crazy? Well, it’s not a bad idea. I can try it once in a while. There's nothing wrong with trying, right? Maybe it will help me and make me feel better. Especially now and I don't really have anyone close to me.

Mr. Lee stood up. I took a deep sigh as if I had released my problem even though I didn't tell him. It's comforting even if you just listen to other people's stories.

"Ahh, is that it? That’s your story?" I'm asked, innocently.

"Haha... yes…" he laughed and apologized.

Why is he apologizing?

"It was nice talking to you, Mr. Lee…”

I was surprised when he stopped moving and just stared at me. He focused on looking at my face. Is there dirt on my face? It was already making me uncomfortable so I looked away.

"....Is—Is there a problem?" I was embarrassed to ask him and I was still scratching my cheek, I couldn't look directly into his eyes.

"Sorry" he answered me smiling.

He suddenly sat down on the road as if he was shrinking himself. I was surprised by what he did. What is wrong with this guy?

"Hi! I am Mr. Lee the rock, whatever you want to say even if that is a problem you can say it to me!" He said it in his smallest voice.

"Pfft! HAHAHA" I laughed while looking at him.

To my delight, I couldn’t stop myself from telling him my story. I know that he is a stranger but he seems nice. I started with the story of my life and the problems I am facing now. What I said was so long that I was dumbfounded.

"Ahh, I'm sorry for talking too much... Where am I?" I asked him. I don't know what I said to him last.

"It's fine. Your last story was about you going to Australia, you said you want to study in Australia but Mr. Buenavista won't let you?" he asked.

Ahh yes, I was telling him about my plans. Maybe it's okay if I tell him about the contract, right? Maybe it's okay if he finds out that Redemon and I were just married by agreement. He seems like a nice man after all.

"Ahh... Because... Actually, Mr. Buenavista and I were married by agreement. Everything was fake. It's really a secret and we can't tell anyone..." I said as I scratched my head.

"Huh?!" He asked in surprise at what I said.

"Forget it" I answered with a smile. "Fakes will always be fakes, but I'm going to Australia to study and learn to rely on myself," I added.

I stood up smiling. It feels good to have someone tell me about my problem. The heavy thing that was burdened on my chest earlier is gone.

"You're very pretty, Chelsea…" he said seriously while staring at my face.

"Ahh... Huh?"

What did he say? I think I am hearing things that I shouldn’t be hearing. I need to clean my ear.

"Those who work hard to achieve their goals are the most beautiful. I believe you will succeed, Miss Gracia," he added.

"Thank you, Mr. Lee…" that was all I said before giggling.

Why do new people that I met so kind and willing to listen to my problems, while my family considers me an enemy… He then took something from his pocket. A golden ticket.

"I'm friends with the Westlife concert's event organizer, she sent me two tickets. I just came back and I don't have anyone else to take with me, because I don't have any friends to take with me to that concert. If Ms. Garcia doesn't mind, would you go with me?" He smiled as he offered it to me.

I was surprised when he handed me a golden ticket.

"Can... Can I really go? Are you serious? Hey, maybe this is joke time! I’m stupid sometimes and tend to believe people easily…"

Shit! I'm going to a Westlife concert. Since I was little, I have been a devoted Westlife fan. When my mother was still living, she enjoyed playing their music when she put me to sleep in the afternoon. Lucky for me, it appears that I will be able to witness their show for free, and it says that it is a VIP ticket. It happens that Mr. Lee is a richy rich man!

I gasped as I received the ticket. Gosh!

"I guess that's a yes. Then we'll meet in front of the Araneta coliseum at 5 pm tomorrow" he said.

"Ahhh—Yyes! thank you so much Mr. Lee"

"Just call me Kent or Jackson, we can count on each other to keep our secrets right?"

“Yes of course! Thank you so much!”

I suddenly looked at my phone and saw that it was 1:02 a.m.

"Ahh, it’s late, I'm sorry for bothering you for so long..." I shyly said to Kent.

"Don't be, I enjoyed talking to you, Chelsea. Let me join you to wait for a taxi so you can go home," he offered. When I got into a taxi, I even saw him waving at me until we were far away.