Can't Lose You

Chapter 01: Broken

Briella's POV

--

A month from now, I'm set to marry my long-time boyfriend, Xander Madrigal, the CEO of Star Agency. We worked side by side to grow the business, and I gave up my career as a popular model to focus on his enterprise and support his dreams.

"Honey, are you sure you don't want to come to my place?" I asked him, trying to hide the excitement in my voice. I had prepared a surprise, knowing he'd enjoy it.

"I'm sorry, honey, but I really can't. Why would you plan something when I have an important meeting?" he replied from the other end of the line.

I took a deep breath, masking my disappointment. I knew he was always busy, but I couldn't understand why he couldn't make time for me anymore. Even when we had the chance to be together, it always felt like he was somewhere else, distracted or unavailable.

"Okay," I muttered. I wanted to say more, but he abruptly ended the call.

With a heavy sigh, I placed my phone beside me, leaned against the sofa, and stared at the ceiling. Xander had changed since he proposed. He barely had time for me anymore. We rarely saw each other at the company, and he hardly ever called me into his office to talk or check on me.

He was constantly buried in paperwork or out in meetings with clients. He used to take me along, but now, he just left me in my office with piles of work I wasn't even supposed to handle.

My phone suddenly rang. I glanced at the screen and saw Matilda's name-one of my friends and a fellow model at the agency.

"Hey, Matty. What's up?" I answered.

"Are you busy right now?" she asked.

"No," I sighed. "Xander isn't coming over today, so I'm just stuck at home. Why?"

"Perfect! Come with me to pick an outfit for my party later. If you're free, tag along!"

A party? Why not? I'd just be sulking alone at home anyway.

"Sure, count me in. Where are we meeting?"

"Meet me at the mall. I'll text you the store name. Bye!"

After the call, I quickly got dressed and headed out.

***

"This one looks great on you," Matty said, holding up a black, backless, plunging dress with a knee-length skirt and a slit on the left side.

"Are you sure?" I asked, eyeing the bold design. That dress would definitely draw attention at the party.

"Yup! You'll look hot and daring in this. I bet you'll be the center of attention. Maybe you'll even meet someone interesting tonight," she added with a playful wink.

I shook my head, chuckling. "You know I'm getting married next month. I should probably wear something simple and elegant-"

"Oh, come on, Brie! Don't be such a killjoy!" Matilda cut me off, shaking her head with mock disapproval. "Put this on for me, please? Let's call it my gift to you. One night of freedom! You won't be able to do this next month, so enjoy it while you can." She grabbed my hand and handed me the dress. "Take it. I'll pay for it. A small thank-you for coming with me tonight."

I sighed, staring at the dress. It was definitely bold, more daring than anything I'd worn lately. But maybe Matilda had a point. One night couldn't hurt, right?

"All right, just this once," I murmured. After tonight, I promised myself I wouldn't get dragged into Matilda's night-outs again.

After shopping for our outfits, we headed to a well-known salon to get dolled up. Honestly, I could've done my hair and makeup. I had years of experience from my modeling days, but since I was with a high-profile model like Matilda, I went along.

Still, I waited outside the salon for more than an hour. As soon as we arrived, her fans recognized her and started swarming, snapping photos like it was a full-blown photoshoot. I watched from a bench nearby, amused and slightly invisible.

"I'm sorry, Bri. Did you get bored waiting?" Matilda finally said, approaching me. "You should've gone ahead and started your hair already."

I just smiled and shook my head. "It's okay. It was actually kind of entertaining watching you interact with your fans."

"Well, that's what comes with being famous. You get mobbed by people who adore you." She laughed lightly before continuing, "Too bad your fans disappeared when you stopped accepting projects."

I blinked, taken aback, but kept my tone steady. "Xander prefers I focus on helping him with the business. And honestly, I'm happy doing it-it's for our future."

Matilda didn't say anything after that. She just turned around and walked into the salon.

Later that night, we met again at the nightclub where the so-called party was being held. Even from outside, the pounding bass of the music hit me like a wave.

"Isn't it a bit dangerous in there?" I asked, peeking into the dimly lit interior.

Matilda laughed. "Is this your first time in a place like this? No wonder you're so boring."

"I've been to plenty of clubs before," I replied, holding back a scoff. "Just not ones like this. The ones I've been to were more upscale-elite members, gold cards, that kind of thing." I didn't mean to sound arrogant, but I wasn't about to let her take jabs at me, especially with people nearby who might be listening.

Matilda didn't respond. She just grabbed my wrist and pulled me inside.

The music blared around us, vibrating through the floor and walls. Instantly, a few people turned to look, eyes trailing after us, probably admiring the two well-dressed women who just walked in.

"Oh God, I love being the center of attention!" Matilda squealed, clinging to my arm.

"Come on, this way!" she shouted over the music, dragging me toward the bar. "Two Bloody Marys, please!" she ordered without hesitation.

"Who organized this party?" I asked, glancing around the room. Despite the dim lights and disorienting flashes of disco colors, I could still make out familiar faces. Most were fellow models-friends of Matilda's. Some, I only recognized from my past... people I hadn't spoken to in years, not since the incident at my former agency.

"My boyfriend," Matilda said brightly, grinning like a teenager in love.

I raised an eyebrow. "You have a boyfriend?" That was news to me. She had never mentioned anything about a relationship, or maybe she'd kept it under wraps to avoid scandal.

"Can I meet him?" I asked, curious.

Matilda's grin widened, but something was off about it-something too perfect. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, giving me an odd, almost eerie feeling.

"You'll get to know him soon enough," she replied with a light laugh. "But I don't know if he wants to meet you. He's shy... doesn't show up just for anyone."

Before I could ask more, someone called out, "Matty!"

We both turned toward the voice. My brows furrowed the moment I saw Matilda's face pale. The woman who called her approached us quickly, and I recognized her instantly.

"Miss Briella!" she exclaimed, clearly surprised. "W-What are you doing here?"

"Edna," I greeted with a calm smile. "Matilda invited me. It's nice to see you."

Her eyes flicked between me and Matilda as if silently analyzing something. "I see. Well... enjoy the party, Miss Brie." Then, without another word, she walked away.

Matilda and I exchanged a glance. Edna had always been sharp. I wasn't sure what she was thinking, but I could tell something was off.

Still, I tried to relax. After a while, we toasted, laughed, and even danced to the loud, fast-paced music. Matilda introduced me to a few more models, though most of them were too absorbed in their own little worlds to care. I felt a little out of place-like an outsider crashing someone else's moment.

Time slipped away without me realizing it. Eventually, the lights started to blur, and the music felt like a distant thumping echo in my head. Dizzy, I leaned in toward Matilda.

"I think I need to use the restroom," I told her, my voice lower than usual.

"Can you still handle it?" she asked, concern flickering in her eyes.

I nodded. "Yeah... but I think I should leave soon. It's almost midnight."

She smiled apologetically. "Thank you for coming tonight. I'd take you home, but can't leave my friends right now." She gestured toward her crowd, still drinking and dancing like the night was starting.

I waved a hand dismissively. "You don't have to. I can drive myself. I just need a minute in the restroom, okay?"

I turned away and made my way through the crowd. As I passed the staircase leading to the second floor, I noticed a sign on the wall that read VIP Rooms in sleek, glowing letters. I paused briefly, then continued toward the restroom.

Once inside, I entered one of the stalls and nearly bumped my head against the door. I was more unsteady than I'd thought. I sat down and closed my eyes momentarily, hoping the spinning would stop.

I must've dozed off because the next thing I heard were voices outside the cubicle-muffled but close.

"Matilda, are you sure you won't get caught doing this?" I froze when I heard Edna's voice outside the cubicle. My brow furrowed.

"Shut up, Edna! It's none of your business!" Matilda snapped, her voice sharp. "She won't find out, she's too naïve and foolish! Can you believe I told her I have a boyfriend? She even asked to meet him! I almost told her the truth, but Xander would've been furious."

It felt like a bomb exploded in my chest. I bit my lip hard to stop any sound from escaping, even as my heart pounded violently in my ears. Did I hear that right? Or was I imagining things? Maybe I was still drunk... or maybe this was real-horribly, painfully real.

"B-but..." Edna stammered.

"No buts, Edna!" Matilda hissed. "You wouldn't even be a model if it weren't for me-remember that! Anyway, I have to go. Xander's waiting for me upstairs. That woman took forever to get drunk!"

My entire body went cold. Rage clenched my fists, but I knew I couldn't confront her. I had to be sure. I needed undeniable proof.

I stayed inside the cubicle until I was certain they had left. Once alone, I slowly stepped out, approached the sink, and stared at myself in the mirror. My reflection looked pale and furious, but clearer now-the alcohol was wearing off, and my thoughts were razor-sharp.

Taking a steadying breath, I exited the restroom and walked toward the second floor, where the VIP Rooms were. My legs trembled with every step, but I pressed on. I couldn't leave without knowing the truth.

I stopped in front of the third door when I heard his voice.

"Are you sure Briella went home?" Xander asked someone inside.

I carefully pushed the door open to see what was happening. My fingers dug into the doorknob, nails biting into the metal, as my world collapsed in front of me.

Matilda sat on Xander's lap, her dress hiked up to her waist.

You filthy son of btches.

"Yup," Matilda said smugly, "she didn't even say goodbye to me-too drunk to remember anything."

"Then why did you invite her in the first place?" Xander grumbled, annoyed.

Matilda giggled. "What, you don't like it? I just wanted to make her feel a little better after you rejected her. And besides... waiting for you gets boring. She's such easy entertainment."

I felt something inside me crack. The urge to scream was overwhelming, but my voice wouldn't come. My body refused to move. My eyes stayed glued to the disgusting scene unraveling before me.

They kissed hungrily, shamelessly. His hand moved down her back and gripped her bare ass. Matilda moaned loudly, her underwear already lying on the floor.

And then they started making out right there in front of me. Loud, vulgar, and cruel.

I couldn't take it anymore.

I turned and ran as if the air in that place was poisoning me. My vision blurred, not from tears but from a burning fire inside me.

You will pay for this-both of you. I swear. I won't stop until I bring you down.

Chapter 02: Become The Wife of The Heartless Devil

Braun's POV

--

It was past two in the morning when I stepped out of the hotel, where we'd just wrapped up a welcome party for one of the most high-profile artists in my company.

I was walking toward my car, ready to call it a night, when a figure suddenly stumbled from a nearby bar into the road. Under normal circumstances, I wouldn't have given it a second glance, but something about her made me pause.

"Mr. President, is there a problem?" Luigi, my assistant, asked as he held the car door open for me.

"Hang on," I told him, my eyes fixed on the woman leaning against a traffic light post. There was something oddly familiar about her.

I started walking toward her, each step drawing me closer. She was clearly intoxicated, swaying unsteadily, one hand pressed against her temple as if she were fighting off the entire world.

"Sir?" I heard Luigi call after me, clearly stunned. I didn't blame him. I'd never once stopped for a stranger in all the years he'd worked with me.

But this wasn't just any stranger.

She tried to walk again but stumbled, bracing herself against the post. I stepped in front of her, blocking her path.

"Don't you know it's dangerous for someone like you to be out walking at this hour?" I asked, my tone colder than intended. It's an old habit, I guess.

She looked up at me, her eyes glassy yet still defiant. Even through the haze of alcohol, she had a fire in her.

"Don't you know how painful it is to be cheated on by the one you love most?" she snapped back, her voice cracked and slurred. She pointed to her chest, her expression twisted in pain. "It hurts like hell! I gave him everything he wanted! I sacrificed my fcking career so that he wouldn't complain and in the end? He still cheated on me?! Fck him!"

Then she broke, just like that. The wall holding her together shattered. Without warning, she collapsed against me, her sobs shaking her body as if they had been trapped inside her for years.

She cried like the world had betrayed her. Maybe it had.

I wasn't sure what instinct took over, but I wrapped an arm around her waist to keep her from falling. She clung to me like I was the last solid thing left in her crumbling world.

Then, just as suddenly, she looked up at me again. And before I could react, her lips pressed against mine. The kiss was impulsive. Raw. Desperate.

It wasn't a romantic gesture. It was survival-a cry. A need to be seen, felt-anything but invisible.

And in that moment, I didn't push her away.

From the corner of my eye, I saw Luigi scrambling out of the car, eyes wide, checking the surroundings like he expected paparazzi to jump out of the shadows. The last thing I needed was a scandal before sunrise.

But right then, none of that mattered. Because the broken woman in my arms had just kissed me like her heart had nothing left to lose.

"Mr. President," Luigi approached me cautiously, and concern etched across his face.

I didn't answer. I just stared down at the woman in my arms. Her face was tear-streaked, her breath shallow, her body still trembling from the weight of everything she'd just let out.

"Take me with you," she whispered, her voice barely audible, but the plea in her tone was unmistakable.

Luigi looked unsure of what to do. I couldn't blame him. This wasn't how I usually operated-not with emotion, and not on impulse.

Without another word, I bent down and scooped her into my arms. She didn't resist. She just melted against me.

"Mr. President!" Luigi called out, hurrying to catch up.

"Find your way home," I said calmly, moving toward the car. "And bring one of my lawyers first thing in the morning."

He blinked in confusion. "W-What for?"

I paused at the door, looking down at the woman who shrank before me. Her eyes were closed now, exhausted from the weight of betrayal and alcohol.

"Prepare the papers," I said. "I want a marriage certificate ready before noon."

Then I stepped into the car, holding a broken woman in my arms and not caring about the consequences. I wasn't thinking logically-only instinct.

Something told me her presence in my life wasn't just fate.

It was a decision.

--

Briella's POV

--

A strange sensation pulled me from sleep, like a thread tugging at the back of my mind. I felt eyes on me.

My lids fluttered open, and the first thing I saw was an unfamiliar cream-colored ceiling. I sat up in a rush, confused, as I scanned the room.

This... isn't my place.

The space was too big, too elegant. Soft gray walls, clean lines, expensive decor. A balcony to my left let in a breeze through sheer curtains. Everything looked like a scene from a luxury magazine.

Panic started to rise in my chest. Where the hell was I?

Before I could climb out of bed, the door across the room swung open-and I swear my heart stopped.

A man walked out. Shirtless. With just a towel hanging low on his hips.

And holy hell-he looked like the gods had sculpted him. Broad chest, defined abs, wet hair slicked back. His presence sucked the air out of the room.

My jaw dropped. My eyes trailed downward, then shot back up as I clutched the blanket to my chest.

Was I still drunk? Dreaming?

He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Done staring?" His voice was deep, smooth, and could make a woman melt. "Did I pass your inspection?"

I opened my mouth, but no words came out. I felt like a blubbering fool. My cheeks burned.

He walked over to the bed, setting down a neatly folded set of clothes.

"Go take a cold shower," he said. "Meet me downstairs after. There's something you need to know."

I blinked, still in disbelief. My gaze flicked to the paper bags beside the clothes, designer labels.

"They're new," he added casually. "I had my assistant buy them for you."

He even read my mind. What in the world had I gotten myself into?

Just as he turned to leave, he suddenly stopped. "On second thought, I'll wait for you here."

My heart skipped a beat. Panic set in.

I scrambled toward the bathroom, shutting the door behind me. As warm steam began to fill the space, the fog in my mind started to clear, and reality slammed into me like a freight train.

How did I end up here?

The last thing I remembered was Xander's betrayal. Drinking. Crying. And... kissing a stranger?

I hugged myself tightly, letting out a shaky breath. Shame, confusion, and a strange curiosity flickered in my chest. My thoughts kept returning to him, his intense eyes, commanding voice, and the way he held me like I wasn't just some random, broken woman.

Did something happen between us? Why did he bring me here?

The questions wouldn't stop swirling.

I showered quickly and put on the clean clothes he'd left. My hair was still damp as I stepped back into the room, my bare feet silent against the marble floor. He was now seated on the sofa, flipping through some documents. I hesitated, unsure of what to say or how to even begin.

"President Braun, I-"

He looked up, and his sharp gaze cut me off immediately.

Without a word, he stood, walked over, and, to my utter confusion, gently guided me back into the bathroom. He opened a cabinet, pulled out a hairdryer, and pointed at the mirror.

"Do you want to catch a cold?" he said firmly. "Why didn't you dry your hair?"

I blinked at him, caught completely off guard.

My hair? Was he seriously scolding me over that? It wasn't even that wet, and the weather outside was warm.

As if reading my thoughts, he added, "The entire house is air-conditioned. It's colder inside than out. You can't just leave your hair wet like that."

For a second, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Still in disbelief, I sat in front of the mirror, watching his reflection behind me as he plugged in the dryer. The powerful CEO everyone feared was now gently drying my hair like it was the most natural thing in the world.

I stared at him through the mirror, unable to look away. He didn't look annoyed or impatient-just calm and focused.

"It's really fine, President Braun. My hair's not that wet," I muttered, flustered.

But he ignored me, continuing until he was satisfied. Then, without warning, he took my hand.

I stumbled slightly as he pulled me out of the bathroom and led me down a long hallway with closed doors. We passed at least six rooms before heading down a grand staircase that opened into a lavish living space.

My steps slowed when I saw two men standing in the living room.

They immediately straightened the moment Braun approached.

And just like that... I knew something serious was about to happen.

"Good morning, Mr. President," Luigi greeted formally. "As requested, I came early with Attorney Guevarra. He'll explain the contract you prepared."

Braun briefly nodded, acknowledging Luigi, but didn't say anything. He held my hand as we sat on the long, plush sofa. The two men sat across from us.

Attorney Guevarra opened his briefcase and pulled out three white sheets of paper. When he placed them on the coffee table, my eyes nearly popped at the bold letters printed across the top.

CERTIFICATE OF MARRIAGE CONTRACT

What the actual fck?!

My heart skipped a beat. Is this for real? I blinked a few times, hoping I wasn't hallucinating from the aftereffects of last night.

I quickly looked at Braun, hoping to see what was happening. But his expression had shifted. The cold replaced the calm, caring man I knew him to be from earlier, the calculating CEO. His face was unreadable as ever.

Without a second thought, Braun flipped through the papers and began signing them, one by one.

Then he turned to me, his gaze steady, his voice softer than I expected.

"I want you to be my wife. Will you sign this paper for me, please?"

I stared at him, speechless. Was this happening? A proposal? From him? Now?!

Luigi and the lawyer looked as stunned as if they had seen a UFO land in the middle of the room.

Was the infamous "Heartless Devil" of Crown Star Entertainment, known for his ruthlessness and emotional detachment, asking me to marry him?

With all his wealth, power, and influence, why the hell would he need to do this?

As if reading my thoughts, Braun leaned in slightly.

"Listen, Ms. Gabriella Montañez," he said, his voice steady and serious. "I need someone to marry me, or my father will take everything I've built. On the other hand, you need someone to help you take your revenge. So let's help each other."

He slid the pen toward me.

"In return... I'll give you everything you want."

I fell silent. His reasoning made sense, and he could give me the power to tear those two people apart. But that wasn't my real reason for considering this.

"I trust you," I finally said, meeting his eyes. "But let me be clear. I'm not signing this because of your promise or because of what you can give me. I'm doing this to thank you for what you did last night. I don't need your help with my revenge, not because I'm bragging, but because it's my problem. I don't want to drag you into it."

I took a deep breath, my voice firm and resolute. "All I ask is that President Braun stay out of my fight. If you can promise me that, I'll sign this contract willingly."

Without a moment's hesitation, Braun nodded. "Okay. I promise."

That was all I needed to hear.

I picked up the pen and signed the contract without a second thought, my movements quick and deliberate. I didn't hesitate, didn't question it. I just signed.

"You're not even going to read it?" Braun asked, arching an eyebrow in amusement. "What if I slip in something scandalous just to mess with you?"

I turned to him, a small smile tugging at my lips. "Like I said, I trust you. As far as I know, you're not the kind of man who would resort to deception or cheating."

He laughed, a genuine, loud, and full of something I didn't expect. "You clever girl. Alright then. It's settled-you're now my wife. And just like I promised, I won't interfere with your personal matters. I'll give you enough time to solve your problem."

I nodded, my heart quiet with a strange mix of relief and gratitude. Just like that, it was done. In less than an hour, I had signed a contract with no expiration date and become Mrs. Braun El Cueva, the wife of the Heartless Devil of the showbiz industry.

"Please keep this a secret for now," I said softly, my voice steady despite the whirlwind of thoughts inside me. "Once my issue is handled, I promise you, I'll step away and let you return to your life."

"No problem," he replied without hesitation, his tone calm and assured.

Attorney Guevarra soon left with the signed documents in hand. Sensing the shift in atmosphere, Luigi retreated upstairs to the study room, giving us space.

Braun and I ate breakfast in silence. Neither of us said much, but the air between us was thick with unspoken thoughts. After the meal, we both stood up. Without a word, I went back upstairs to my room while Braun headed to the study to meet with Luigi.

Chapter 3: Time To Wake Up

Briella's POV

--

I tried to sort through the mountain of new clothes Luigi had brought, but no matter how many boxes I opened, I couldn't find a decent outfit. With a sigh, I sank to the floor.

Not even one casual dress-out of twenty boxes?

Everything was either sleepwear or nightgowns, and judging by the price tags, even the pajamas were outrageously expensive. I couldn't afford a single set, let alone three.

As frustration started to bubble inside me, Braun entered the room. His sharp eyes immediately caught the disappointment on my face.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

"I need to go home," I muttered. "But what am I supposed to wear? I can't exactly walk outside in pajamas or a nightgown."

He stepped closer, gently placing his hands on my shoulders to help me stand. I stiffened a little. His touch sent a shiver down my spine-warm and electric, unsettling but strangely comforting at the same time.

"Your clothes are on the way," he said calmly. "I told Luigi to pick them up and bring them here. He'll be back in about ten minutes."

He guided me toward the bed and motioned for me to sit. "Wait here. I need to get ready. I have an important meeting today, so I won't be able to accompany you wherever you're going."

"You don't have to," I replied earnestly, looking him straight in the eyes. "I told you, don't get involved in my affairs. I can take care of myself."

He held my gaze for a moment, then sighed quietly.

"Alright. But from now on, this is your new home." His voice softened. "After my meeting, I'll pick you up and help you pack your things."

Before turning away, he smiled gently and cupped my cheek briefly. Then he walked toward the walk-in closet to change.

"President Braun?" I called out, my voice uncertain, stopping him in his tracks.

He turned slightly, raising an eyebrow.

"I'm your husband now," he said with a hint of amusement. "Do you really need to call me that?"

I bit my lower lip and looked down, flustered. For some reason, my heart raced every time our eyes met.

"I... I don't know what to call you," I admitted quietly.

"Think about it," he replied with a faint smirk, disappearing into the closet.

I let out a long breath, my eyes following him as he disappeared behind the door. A question stirred quietly in my mind. Why me? Of all the women in the world, why would a man like Braun, powerful, untouchable, yet choose someone like me?

A knock came from the door before I could think about it further. One of the maids informed me that Luigi had arrived with my clothes.

I quickly thanked her and brought the ten branded paper bags into the room. One by one, I checked each outfit and couldn't help but admire how beautiful and expensive they all looked.

Eventually, I settled on a red high-low dress with a hemline slightly shorter in the front and longer at the back. I paired it with beige espadrille wedges. My long, wavy, coffee-brown hair flowed effortlessly over one shoulder.

Inside the bathroom, I stood in front of the large mirror and blinked. The woman staring back at me looked refined, elegant, and confident.

I didn't need much makeup. My lips already had a natural rosy tint, and my hazelnut eyes stood out beneath thick lashes and bold brows. My cheeks had a subtle pink flush that softened my look even more.

For the first time in a long time, I didn't just look beautiful. I looked unbreakable.

There was a reason I'd chosen that particular outfit. My legs, long, smooth, and fair, had always drawn attention naturally. As a model, they were my most significant asset. Not every woman was blessed with such length and grace, and I knew how to use them to my advantage.

Satisfied with how I looked, I stepped out of the bathroom, only to find Braun still in the room, seated on the single sofa, speaking quietly on the phone.

I paused for a moment, watching him.

He was wearing a dark blue single-breasted suit that hugged his frame perfectly. His tousled hair gave him a casually regal look, like royalty who didn't even need to try.

"Oh, you haven't left yet?" I asked, surprised.

"I was waiting for you," he said, his gaze trailing from my face downward, lingering on my legs. "You have beautiful legs. Make sure you take care of them."

Then he stood and offered his hand. "Let's go."

I blinked but nodded, slipping my hand into his.

Inside the car, my phone suddenly rang. I glanced at Braun beside me before answering.

"Hello, Brie, where are you? I've been trying to reach you. Are you okay?" came the voice of my deceitful fiancé, Xander.

I kept my tone flat and formal. "I'm on my way to meet an old friend. I won't be coming to the office today."

Beside me, Braun gently took my hand, grounding me.

"Who is this friend? Why didn't you wait for me? You know you shouldn't go out alone, someone might take advantage of you," Xander said, his voice laced with fake concern.

I narrowed my eyes. "Xander, I'm fine. I'm not naïve and would never let anyone deceive me."

There was a beat of silence on the line.

Then I heard an unmistakable muffled groan followed by a woman's voice. Before I could react, the call abruptly ended.

My jaw clenched, and I tightened my grip on the phone.

Shameless! Shameless sons of btches!

"Do you want me to come with you?" Braun asked quietly. "I can cancel my appointment."

I looked at him and gave a slight shake of my head. "I'm fine. Just drop me off outside the subdivision. I'll catch a taxi to the hotel. My car's still there."

"I'll take you to the hotel," he said firmly. It wasn't a suggestion, it was a decision.

I didn't argue. My mind was too tangled in fury to care.

Did he even remember? Today was supposed to be our wedding rehearsal. Xander was supposed to pick me up from my house to meet our wedding planner and best friend. And now... this.

I closed my eyes. There was a time I had dreamed of confronting them, Xander and the woman hiding behind the veil of lies. But now I knew how that would play out. They'd twist the narrative and paint me as the bitter ex.

No. That wasn't going to happen.

From this moment forward, I would reclaim everything they had stolen from me, piece by piece.

I flinched slightly when Braun gently squeezed my hand.

"You're trembling," he said softly. "What can I do to make you feel better?"

I turned to him and got lost in the depths of his marbled gray eyes for a fleeting moment. There was no pity in them, only something deeper I couldn't quite name.

I offered a faint smile and shook my head. "Nothing, Mr. President. Please... don't do anything."

Just then, we entered the basement parking lot of the hotel, the same venue where the party had been held.

A quiet, bitter laugh slipped past my lips, but it didn't last.

"Thank you for the ride," I said, biting my lower lip. "Take care."

Braun didn't reply at first. He simply nodded and leaned closer. I froze as the scent of his cologne enveloped me, clean, masculine, and unmistakably expensive. It clung to my senses like a whisper I didn't want to chase but couldn't ignore.

Then, the car door on my side clicked open.

"I'll call you after my meeting. Take care, Briella. And don't forget, you still owe me an endearment," he said teasingly before kissing my forehead gently.

I nodded quickly and stepped out of the car. I couldn't risk staying another second. One impulsive kiss was already more than enough. I wouldn't let it happen again.

I expected Braun's car to drive off the moment I left. But instead, my phone rang. It was him. Braun El Cueva.

"Where's your car? Why are you still standing there? Did you forget something?" his voice came through the line, warm and concerned.

My eyes shifted sheepishly to my car parked right in front of me. I turned away instinctively, trying to hide the blush creeping up my cheeks.

"It's here," I replied, fumbling with my keys. "I was just about to get in. I... I wanted to wait until you left before getting into my car."

"We'll leave once you do. I want to make sure you're safe," he said gently. "By the way, where are you headed?"

Finally sliding into the driver's seat, I felt like I could breathe again.

"I'm going to Star Agency. I need to talk to my manager and settle a few things. After that, I'll head to my apartment to pack."

"Alright. Leave your car at the agency. I'll pick you up there and come with you to the apartment. I don't want you to go alone. Buckle up and drive safely, alright?"

His words stunned me into silence for a moment. Where was the cold, ruthless businessman everyone gossiped about? This man, my husband, even if only on paper, was far from the monster they painted him to be.

"Okay. You, too," I said softly, fastening my seatbelt and starting the engine.

Braun's car followed me as I exited the basement, but we parted ways at a junction. Moments later, a message popped up from him. I couldn't suppress the small smile tugging at my lips.

"10-15, huh?" I muttered to myself, amused, staring at his name flashing on my screen.

But my smile vanished the moment another name appeared-Xander.

Taking a deep breath, I composed myself and answered the call.

"Hello?" I said in a formal tone.

"Hey, honey! Sorry about earlier. My phone died-battery ran out," Xander said, his voice smooth and practiced.

"No worries," I replied, focusing on the road. "Is there anything you need? I'm driving, so I might have to hang up soon."

"Oh, it's just quick. Will you be out long? I was hoping you could do something for me at the office. It's urgent, and I can't leave where I am. Can you help me out?"

I clenched the steering wheel tighter.

"I'll try, but I can't promise anything. I told you-I have an important meeting."

"Briella, please-"

"I said I'll try," I cut in sharply, my voice colder than intended.

There was a pause. I could still hear him breathing on the other end of the line.

"Alright... I just hope you'll find time. It's for the company, and I rely on you for these things," he added, his tone almost pleading.

"I have to go. I'll call you when I'm done. Bye."

I ended the call before he could say another word.

My fingers curled tighter around the steering wheel as memories from last night flooded back-raw, vivid, and agonizing. The betrayal still felt unreal. The two people I had trusted the most... hiding their affair behind my back like it was nothing.

I pressed harder on the gas pedal. I refused to cry. Not again.

Only one person knew the full truth-Edna. And today, I was going to find her. I needed answers. I needed proof. Once I had it, I would make damn sure both Xander and that snake of a friend paid dearly for what they did to me.

Time to wake up, Briella! I scolded myself. You've been asleep for too long. Open your eyes and burn them with the truth.