Tristan Quartararo stared intently at Sophia Walters, who assumed his wife's status just a few hours ago. Out of his eye, he could see the woman sobbing on the bed with an almost innocent body.
At first, everything seemed perfect. Tristan and Sophia managed to steal the public's attention because of their spectacular appearance.
Many guests from various circles and social strata attended the lavish reception that had just been held. Not a few media crews from multiple news portals covered this sacred moment.
However, that happiness did not last long. The beautiful wedding that had just passed suddenly turned into a disaster. When entering the bridal chamber, Tristan, initially warm, unexpectedly turned 180 degrees into the cold as ice in Antarctica.
Tristan, The man, did not hesitate to intimidate his wife. He kept trying to move forward, approaching as if ready to pounce on Sophia, who was almost defenseless because she was overcome by fear.
"For God's sake, Tristan, stop your madness. Please don't come any closer! You've hurt me," Sophia sobbed. She held the gray blanket tightly to avoid falling off her body. At the same time, Tristan seemed the least bit concerned. He quickly removed his coat without further calculations and removed the white shirt that wrapped his muscular body. Throwing in all directions without diverting the ocean-blue eyes from the target he had been aiming for.
Slowly but surely, Tristan crawled up onto the bed. When the woman was preparing to run, he quickly blocked her. Pulling back its prey, then locking the slender body until it lay helpless.
"Where are you going, honey?"
The short question was able to make Sophia shudder even more in fear. Her heartbeats beat against each other, giving a feeling of infinite horror.
"I won't let you run from my side, Sophia. Never!"
Sophia shook her head several times. She tried her best to get out of the confines of Tristan's body, which was so strong. But it's still useless.
Her efforts were not in the least fruitful. Yes, Sophia lost power. Even when Tristan gripped her hands tightly, she couldn't do anything but act resignedly and burst into tears.
"Please, let me go," she squeaked for mercy.
She couldn't hold back the tears rolling down her smooth cheeks. How could I not? The man known to be so gentle tonight transformed into another figure, like a demon. Completely different from the one she had previously known.
"Tristan Quartararo, please let me get out of here. What did I do wrong to make you treat me like this? You hurt me!"
Tristan kept his sharp grin on. Tears did not touch her heart, let alone the request Sophia had chanted earlier. The flames of vengeance already clouded the man's mind, which can only be extinguished if the wishes and plans that he has made for a long time are carried out. Tristan even can not wait to carry out all the action.
"No need to know what you did wrong. For sure, I will never let you go!" The man smiled mockingly. "You must remember carefully and plant these words in your brain. Sophia Walters belongs only to Tristan Quartararo. From now on, you are a wife who must be ready to serve and I torture at any time. No other man is allowed to glance, stare, let alone touch you besides me, not even Edward Oliviera."
"You really are a bastard!" Sophia screeched angrily. Her face was bright red because she felt humiliated by the man who was her husband. "You must have set me up on purpose! There must be a purpose for you to do all this to me. We even just officially got married a few hours ago, and now? You've hurt me, Tristan!"
"Oh my gosh Sophia. You think I care about all your babbling?" Tristan smirked slyly again. The man leaned forward even more, then soon began to whisper, "I will not stop until what I have set out to do. I will not stop until your whole family suffers."
The next second, Tristan pulled the dress attached to Sophia's body until it came off without a trace. Start kissing, even touching every inch of the woman's body roughly.
Tristan keeps biting. His two hands held Sophia's hand so that she couldn't move.
Mercilessly, Tristan continued to kiss Sophia's face. Then before long, the kiss continued down to the neck. Stopping there, the man sucked in even the occasional small bite repeatedly.
Then suddenly, his hand dropped. Start exploring. A touch from the nape of the neck, then down to the chest. He stayed there for a moment. Seconds later, his hands began to squeeze Sophia's chest, making Sophia nervous because she had to restrain herself from being carried away by what Tristan was doing.
Satisfied to see how helpless Sophia was, Tristan then forcibly pulled the underwear that wrapped around Sophia's lower body-leaving the woman innocent. Then without reckoning, Tristan fucked Sophia very roughly. It didn't matter that the wife was crying because she was holding back pain and anger.
Tristan forcibly snatched the treasure Sophia had been working so hard to protect. Even though Tristan has the right because they are officially husband and wife from now on, it hurts to be treated like this. From under Tristan's body, Sophia could only sob. She was lamenting the bad luck that had just befallen him.
After successfully tormenting and snatching Sophia's virginity, Tristan intends to leave Sophia. However, before leaving, the man approached the woman who had just become his wife again.
Smiling, Tristan gave Sophia a quick kiss on the forehead. He brought his hand to touch her face and stroked Sophia's hair gently. Then unexpectedly, the man pulled his wife's hair roughly while whispering, saying threatening words.
"It's not much, honey. I swear I'll make sure your days after this are more miserable like hell."
Several Years Before
A teenage boy sat quietly in a luxurious burial complex with teary eyes. His hand reached out, continuing to stroke the gray gravestone bearing Andrew John Quartararo's name. Although sadness pierced his heart like a sting, he tried his best to hold back tears.
"Just keep praying so that the late father who has just been buried can rest peacefully. Come on, Tristan. Don't be sad. I'm sure Papa will be happy in heaven," said the beautiful woman named Gracia Quartararo, trying to look strong in front of her only son, even though her cheeks were still wet from tears.
Certainly, it was not easy. She had lost her beloved husband in a car accident. The man who used to give a cheerful smile in the morning, asking for permission to go to work, had to return home lifeless.
"There is Mama who will continue to take care of you, son. Mama promises to continue to accompany you until you get old," Gracia continued, trying to strengthen her child's heart. She knew how close Tristan was to her husband, who had been a father figure to him.
However, a promise is just a promise. Three months after Andrew's passing, it was Gracia's turn to leave Tristan like her husband. She had a heart attack while attending an important meeting in her office. Imagine the heartbreak for Tristan, who was not even 20 years old, to lose both of his parents in such a short time. At a young age, he was forced to survive in the face of the harsh world.
"Tristan, don't cry. You are not alone in this world. There is still Uncle Raphael who will look after and care for you. Uncle promises never to leave you," Raphael comforted Tristan, patting his shoulder repeatedly to strengthen him.
Tristan, who had been looking down, immediately looked up with a sad expression, shaking his head slowly. The tears were already flowing down his cheeks. He couldn't hold them back any longer, but he didn't want to be seen as weak.
"Don't promise me anything, Uncle. It's enough for Papa and Mama to leave me. I don't want everyone I love to just leave my life one by one," Tristan said, expressing his fear of losing more people he cares about.
"No," Raphael shook his head back, trying to reassure Tristan. "I promise not to leave you until I help you become successful. I will guide you and support you in every way I can."
Tristan's hands clenched into fists, and his emotions stirred with determination. He couldn't stay in darkness forever; he had to rise again and fulfill his dreams. There was a challenging task that awaited him, and he vowed to avenge those who had destroyed his family.
"Sooner or later, I have to avenge what they did, Uncle. I will make the Walters family suffer just as I am suffering now," Tristan declared with resolve.
Raphael smirked, appreciating Tristan's determination. "Of course, son. You deserve to do that. Alfonso didn't even show up to apologize after the fatal accident that killed your father. You have every right to seek justice."
From that moment on, Raphael promised to be by Tristan's side and help him become a formidable man both in business and in everyday life.
***
A few years later.
Dear Tristan, My Beloved Son.
If you are reading this letter, it means that Mama is no longer by your side.
Do not be sad.
Never feel alone in the slightest.
Remember! There's Uncle Raphael beside you. He will guide you to make your dreams come true one by one.
Mama believes Uncle Raphael can help you become strong, invincible, and successful in the business world.
When all of that materializes, Mama's one message, Don't forget the people who have destroyed our family. You have to remember that Alfonso is fully responsible for Papa's death. Once you have it all, Tristan, please, bring that man to justice.
Mama believes you can do it all.
Here, Mama will always watch over you and take care of you.
Love Mama.
*
Tristan stared blankly at the white paper in his right hand, recalling the events of his parents' deaths. Many years had passed, but the pain still lingered. Sometimes, in the dark of night, Tristan still cried over the departure of his father and mother. He had thought of wanting to end his life to be with them, but Uncle Raphael had been there to support him and remind him of his determination to seek justice.
"Don't be crazy, Tristan. Don't waste your life on something like this. You can't give up, let alone commit suicide. You must be strong and rise above any challenges. You are not a crybaby, and I know you will succeed," Raphael reminded Tristan, emphasizing his belief in him.
Tristan nodded, understanding the message. He had come a long way, and he couldn't give up now. Raphael's support and encouragement had been crucial in keeping him going.
"Remember, Tristan, you have to be strong and rise above any challenges that come your way. Uncle believes in you and will always be by your side," Raphael added, reminding him of his determination to achieve success and seek justice.
With Raphael's guidance, Tristan was determined to fulfill his dreams, and he knew that he would make the Walters family pay for their actions against his own. He was no longer the weak and grieving young man he once was. He had become strong, determined, and ready to take on the world.
"I'm just missing Mama and Papa, Uncle. In the past few days, I've been dreaming of them often," replied Tristan with a downcast face, his handsome features marked by a sad expression.
"It's okay, kid," said Raphael. "How about tomorrow morning we visit your parents' graves first?"
"Tomorrow morning?" repeated Tristan, looking up immediately. He gazed into his uncle's sincere face. "Is that possible?"
Raphael smiled and nodded. "Of course. I thought you might want to talk to them, especially about your recent achievements. Andrew and Gracia would be so proud that their son has risen and achieved his dreams one by one."
"Uncle is right. I have to tell them, and I can't wait to repay all of Alfonso's actions."
Raphael was pleased to see the enthusiasm in the man he had educated for years. Tristan's recent achievements were a testament to the success of his efforts.
"And you should also tell Andrew and Gracia about your planned engagement to Aurora."
Tristan nodded without any protest. Raphael had recently arranged an engagement between Tristan and his only daughter, Aurora. Tristan felt grateful for all the help and support his uncle had given him, and marrying Aurora seemed like a way to repay the debt.
Tristan knew Aurora was a kind, intelligent, independent, and polite woman. He believed that love would grow naturally between them once they were officially together.
"Of course. I will share everything with my late Papa and Mama, and I'm sure they will approve of my decision."
Tristan then turned to Aurora, who was sitting next to him, and offered her a sincere smile before proceeding to enjoy the food that had been served.
Flashes of flash were immediately apparent when Tristan, Raphael, and Aurora entered the auditorium in the Foxtail Corporation building. All journalists seemed to be competing to cover the process of inaugurating the CEO, who, in the future, will lead the largest construction company in the United Kingdom.
Tristan, dressed in a navy suit, sat quietly next to Raphael. There wasn't the slightest hint of nervousness on his handsome face. After years of study, apprenticeship, and direct involvement in various tenders with Raphael, Tristan continues to try to convince all shareholders and company officials.
At the age of only 25, he is trying to prove to everyone that he deserves to be in the position his father once held. After two general shareholders' meetings, an agreement was finally reached that Tristan was indeed worthy of the position. For this reason, today, he will be officially inaugurated by the commissioners to carry out his duties correctly immediately.
"Thank you for your presence and the trust that the higher-ups of Foxtail Corporation have given me."
Tristan was now standing confidently in front of the pulpit, giving his first speech as a CEO. Meanwhile, the media crew present immediately scrambled to capture the best moments from Tristan. He has indeed attracted the broader public's attention in the past year because of his breakthroughs in the business world. Whatever it is when it comes to Tristan, it must be very in demand for news.
"As a newbie in the business world, of course, it is an honor for me to occupy the CEO position. I have high hopes that after leading this company, Foxtail Corporation will continue to grow, becoming the only multinational construction company whose activities have spread to various parts of the world."
The sound of applause from all the participants in the meeting could be heard filling the room. Flashes of camera lights hit Tristan, who was so fiery in explaining his vision and mission after being officially appointed leader.
"As the new CEO, what's the first thing you're going to do with this company?" asked one of the reporters.
Tristan smiled then answered so calmly, "Recently, I agreed to joint venture offers with several large companies from the Middle East to build the tallest building globally. I am optimistic that this project can be completed on time in the international business scene."
Everyone clapped again. So many were amazed by Tristan's flexibility in explaining and dealing with the many questions asked. He looked relaxed, as if he didn't have the slightest burden.
"About the couple..." one of the reporters asked another question. "Does Mr. Tristan already have a potential partner and intend to end his single life soon? Given your current popularity, there must be a lot of women out there waiting in line to become a wife."
Again, Tristan smiled. He kindly answered one by one the questions given.
"For now, I haven't thought about getting married. As for my partner, later you will know who the woman who stole my heart is."
After finishing the question and answer session with several reporters, the man, accompanied by Raphael and Aurora, chose to leave the auditorium, preparing to go to the CEO's room and start his work for the first time.
***
"Tristan Quartararo, are we bothering you?"
Tristan has just finished his first job as a CEO. Entering the lunch hour, he was surprised by the presence of friends who suddenly came to his office without contacting him first.
"Gosh, why are you guys here all of a sudden?" Tristan hastily got up.
The man then approached three men who seemed to be standing not far from the room's doorway.
"This was Edward's idea," one of them pointed. "That rancid playboy wanted to surprise you on purpose, just like a child."
The man named Edward immediately chuckled, then immediately handed over the cake box that he previously held.
"Oh, come on, Nick. Why are you talking so much? Wasn't this the three of us' idea? Why are you making me a scapegoat now?"
"But you were the originator, weren't you?" offended Nicholas. "You're the one who's been whining. In fact, you asked Jacob and me to pick you up immediately and accompany you to buy a birthday cake for Tristan," the man added.
"Is that true?" It was Tristan's turn to make sure. He looked at each of his friends in disbelief. He often joked that he didn't think his friends could be cute.
"Well... fine. I admit it. What Nicholas said is true."
Scratching the back of his neck uncomfortably, Edward finally acknowledged what Nicholas had said. He was closest to Tristan from the start of their friendship among his three friends. They always did things together.
Edward had considered Tristan like his own brother. Jacob and Nicholas even called them twins.
"Indeed I dragged the two of them to come see you. After all, we really wanted to wish you a happy birthday and congratulate you on your achievements today. Honestly, I'm personally very proud of you."
Tristan smiled sadly. Without awkwardness, he immediately hugged his friends one by one, saying thank you because since he first entered college until now, he has been working, and these three friends have always been by his side. They never moved away in times of trouble or joy.
"Oh my God, I'm really touched by your words." He then asked his three friends to sit on the sofa immediately. There they all began to chit-chat casually.
"So, how was your inauguration today? I saw in the headline news that your company's stock went up significantly after you officially became the new CEO," said Jacob. There was a hint of admiration tucked into his words. Of course, as a young CEO, he is also proud of what his friend has achieved.
Tristan immediately nodded. While cutting the birthday cake Edward brought, he casually addressed Jacob's question.
"I'm also very surprised, Jack. This is really a great achievement for me as a newbie. I didn't know this inauguration would even affect the company's stock. The commissioners also talked about it."
"That means, your existence is really awaited by the public at large."
Nicholas took it seriously. "It seems that they are indeed interested in all your recent endeavors and pursuits. I have to admit, all the brilliant ideas you have shown have brought a breath of fresh air to this business."
"Tristan, you really are proud." This time it was Edward who spoke. The man did not want to miss congratulating his best friend.
"For God's sake, I'm so jealous of you. Hopefully one day, I can occupy the position of CEO of Alexis and shine like you are today," he chuckled in awe.
Then, the three chose to enjoy the cake that Tristan had just cut and handed. While devouring it, they continued to discuss various topics casually.
"By the way, isn't there a small party? Some kind of celebration of your birthday and your success today?" Edward asked, taking a bite of the cake in his hand. It has become a tradition for all of them when celebrating something, and there will be a party. Either on a large scale or privately with close friends.
"Gosh, you're right. Since the past few days have been so busy, I didn't even think about it. But how about we have a party tonight?" Jacob placed his cake plate on the table, reaching for the teacup, and then took a sip of the drink.
As mutually agreed, the four friends decided to gather at America Bar at precisely eight o'clock in the evening. Tristan himself, this time, brought along Aurora to accompany him.
After making reservations and ordering appetizers, Tristan could see Jacob arriving first at the venue with Tita, his girlfriend with him. Then, not long after, Nicholas was also present, bringing Claire, his fiancée.
"We're not late, are we?" Jacob asked as he pulled out a chair and motioned for his girlfriend to sit down.
"Don't worry. Aurora and I only arrived 10 minutes ago," said Tristan. After that, he sat down and started a conversation.
"Tristan, congratulations on your birthday and your achievements today. I know this gift is not much, but at least Nicholas and I are sincere in giving it to you," Claire said as she handed a black box as a birthday present for Tristan this time.
"Gosh, there's no need to bother. I'm very grateful," said the man.
"But no matter what, you deserve all this." Tita, in her seat, also added. The woman then took out a parcel and handed it to Tristan.
"It's me and Jacob who chose it specifically. We hope you'll like it."
"Of course." On the sidelines of their conversation, Edward, who had been waiting for so long, finally arrived. With a smile, the man immediately approached the woman he was carrying.
"Sorry, I'm a little late. I had to get a present first," Edward said as he handed over the things he had brought. A box containing a watch he especially gave to his best friend. "Once again, happy birthday, Tristan. At your age this time, I hope all the dreams that have not been realized can be rushed."
Tristan, standing at that time, immediately hugged Edward with great emotion. When unraveling the hug, his focus was immediately on the beautiful woman his best friend was carrying.
"Ed, don't you want to introduce this beautiful woman next to you?"
"Oh my gosh. I almost forgot," Edward replied. The man then turned to the woman standing right next to him.
"Let me introduce my friends. This beautiful lady is Sophia Walters."
Tristan stared intently at the brown-eyed beauty in front of him. Seconds later, he held out his hand while smiling a meaningful smile.
"Tristan Quartararo. Nice to meet you."