Five Years His Secret, Now Someone Else’s Bride

In my last life, I loved my brother’s best friend longer than I loved myself. I was the princess of the De Luca family, a New York political dynasty. A good girl, through and through. He was Orion Corvo. The king of Chicago's underworld. A ruthless, brutal man. No one thought we belonged together. I never dared to confess. Not until I was kidnapped. That cold-blooded, savage Don took a bullet for me. He shielded me with his body as I bled out. We died together. Only then, seeing the desperation in his eyes, did I understand. He loved me too. Now, I'm back. 18 again. I ditched my life in Europe to stay by his side. For five years, I was his most trusted art appraiser. In private, he’d lose himself inside me. He fucked me like he wanted to own my soul. I became his favorite fuck. His biggest secret. But now, he’s getting married. And the bride isn't me. Chapter 1 In my last life, I loved my brother’s best friend longer than I loved myself. I was the princess of the De Luca family, a New York political dynasty. A good girl, through and through. He was Orion Corvo. The king of Chicago's underworld. A ruthless, brutal man. No one thought we belonged together. I never dared to confess. Not until I was kidnapped. That cold-blooded, savage Don took a bullet for me. He shielded me with his body as I bled out. We died together. Only then, seeing the desperation in his eyes, did I understand. He loved me too. Now, I'm back. 18 again. I ditched my life in Europe to stay by his side. For five years, I was his most trusted art appraiser. In private, he’d lose himself inside me. He fucked me like he wanted to own my soul. I became his favorite fuck. His biggest secret. But now, he’s getting married. And the bride isn't me. ... I stood outside Orion’s penthouse, my hand shaking. I clutched the papers that would end it all. The contract that would sever our five-year entanglement. The moment the door opened, my breath hitched. He wore only a white silk shirt, the top buttons undone. It revealed his bronzed chest and the vicious scar that ran from his collarbone to his heart. Black suit pants clung to his powerful legs. His face was still as perfect as a Roman statue. The high-bridged nose, the cruel line of his lips, and those gray eyes that saw right through you. In a flash, the memory of my death hit me like a tidal wave— After I was kidnapped, he’d risked everything to save me. But we were outnumbered. We were both shot. “Evangeline, run…” Blood spilled from the corner of his mouth, but he still used his body to shield me. “I love you… I’ve always loved you…” His life faded with mine on that rainy night. … “Happy birthday, my girl.” Orion’s voice pulled me back to reality. He took my coat, his fingertips grazing my wrist. A ghost of a touch. “Come in.” I stepped into the familiar space and froze. The massive living room was empty. Even the bodyguards who usually stood by the door were gone. The floor-to-ceiling windows showed off Chicago’s glittering skyline. Inside, candles flickered. 999 blood-red roses surrounded a champagne tower. It was beautiful, like a dark fairytale. “You cleared the whole floor?” “Of course.” He came up behind me, his warm breath on my neck. “It’s just us tonight.” His hand brushed my shoulder as he pulled out my chair. The perfect gentleman. My heart ached. Every detail screamed of how much thought he’d put into this. My favorite Dom Pérignon. Black truffles from the south of France. And a birthday cake surrounded by a sea of candles. “For you, my princess.” He pulled a black velvet box from his suit pocket. Inside lay a necklace that took my breath away. A massive emerald, ringed by a halo of diamonds, sparkled in the candlelight. I shivered when his fingertips grazed my neck. “Perfect,” he whispered in my ear. “Like it was made for you.” I raised my champagne glass, trying to hide my racing heart. Orion sat across from me, his gray eyes burning into mine, threatening to melt me. It had been five years since I was reborn. Five years I’d spent by his side. I was his secret. His only woman. I knew he didn’t do marriage. But the way he looked at me, the way he made love to me… it made me hope. It made me dream that he would ask me to be his wife. But last night, my best friend Emma had shattered that dream. “Evangeline, I shouldn’t be telling you this, but… I can’t let you stay in the dark.” “Orion proposed to Sienna Rossi. The alliance will be announced at the family dinner next week. The whole underworld knows. Everyone but you… Their wedding is set for Christmas Eve.” My hand trembled. I could barely hold my glass. A bitter laugh escaped my lips. I was such a fool. “Make a wish,” he said softly, gesturing to the cake. I stared at the dancing flames, my heart twisting into a knot. “Let me guess,” he traced my lips with his finger, his voice a low growl. “Your wish is still ‘to be Orion Corvo’s wife, forever,’ right?” His touch sent a shock through me, but his words were a knife in the gut. Look at him. He knew exactly what I wanted. And he was still marrying someone else. I looked at the face I had loved for two lifetimes and saw a stranger. Was this really the same Orion who had died for me? Orion lit a cigarette, a lazy, confident smile on his face. He was waiting for me to make my wish. But if he wasn't the man who loved me, then none of this mattered. I was a De Luca. I was raised a princess, showered with love. I didn’t need some of his love. I needed to be his only love. Taking a deep breath, I blew out the candles. “Orion,” my voice was sharp in the silence. “My wish is… to disappear from your world. Completely.” The moment the words left my mouth, the warmth on Orion’s face froze. His gray eyes turned dangerous and cold. I took a step back. “What did you say?” Chapter 2 The next second, Orion shot up from his chair, grabbed my waist, and yanked me against him. “Good girl,” he said, his eyes empty of their earlier warmth. “Take it back. Make a new wish.” His fingers tightened. I could feel the heat of his palm, the threat hidden beneath. This was Orion Corvo. The King of Chicago. The gentleman was a mask. Underneath, it was all control. All possession. “Make a new wish,” he growled, forcing me to look at him. “Say you’ll never leave me.” I knew he wouldn’t let me go easily. Arguing now would only make things worse for me. I pushed down the storm of emotions inside me and forced a smile. “I was just kidding. How could I ever leave you?” His grip loosened, but he didn’t let go. “That’s better.” He placed a soft kiss on my forehead. “You’re mine, Evangeline. Always.” I nodded, playing the part of the obedient girl. The next day, I went to his office. Orion was buried in paperwork, stacks of contracts waiting for his signature. “These need your signature too.” I slipped the termination contract into the stack and handed it to him. He didn't even look up, just started signing, his black fountain pen leaving a powerful scrawl on each page. When he signed the last one, I discreetly pulled my contract from the bottom. From now on, I had no legal ties to the Corvo family. I was no longer his art appraiser. For five years, I had used my talent for art and my fluency in eight languages to travel the world with him. From ancient castles in Florence to private auctions in Tokyo. From the black markets of Paris to lavish exhibitions in Dubai. Every treasure passed through my hands. Every multi-million-dollar deal had my mark on it. But now, it was all over. “Are you free tonight?” Orion put down his pen and finally looked at me. “What did you have in mind?” “I want to take you to a concert.” He stood and walked toward me. “The principal cellist of the Chicago Symphony. He’s playing just for you.” I froze. He remembered the cello was my favorite. “Just the two of us?” “Of course.” He kissed the back of my hand. “My girl deserves the best.” That evening, we arrived at a private concert hall. The entire venue was lit just for us. On stage, the world-class cellist was playing a soulful rendition of “The Swan.” The music was beautiful. And it broke my heart. After the performance, we stepped outside. The night air was cool, and Orion draped his suit jacket over my shoulders. Just then, a familiar figure appeared at the entrance. Sienna Rossi. A cascade of fiery red curls, a black evening gown that clung to her slim waist, a diamond necklace glittering at her throat. I had seen her in my past life, too. Back then, she was Orion’s ex-fiancée. They had called it off quickly and never spoken again. But now… “Orion, what a coincidence.” Sienna’s voice was sweet as honey. “How was the show?” “Not bad,” Orion replied, his tone flat. Sienna’s gaze shifted to me, looking me up and down. “You must be the little De Luca princess. I’ve heard so much about you.” Her smile was perfect, but I saw the challenge in her eyes. “Actually, I helped arrange this concert,” Sienna continued. “The cellist and I are old friends.” I glanced at Orion. His expression didn’t change. “Thank you,” I said politely. “Don’t mention it.” Sienna’s smile widened. “After all, Orion and I… we go way back.” The implication was clear. My stomach tightened. “I’m just going to the restroom,” I said, needing an escape. As I walked away, I heard Sienna’s voice behind me. “I’ve heard all about you two. But really, once we’re married… do you think she’ll be okay with sharing?” My heart hammered against my ribs. Orion’s voice was casual, arrogant. “Her? She’s obsessed with me. She’d do anything to stay by my side.” I stopped dead in my tracks. I bit my lip so hard I could taste blood, my nails digging into my palms. For five years, I thought I was his only one. I gave up my education in Europe, gave up the debutante life my family planned for me, all to follow him into his world of blood and danger. And now I knew the truth. I was just another piece in his collection. My hands trembling, I pulled out my burner phone and dialed a number. “It’s me.” “Miss?” The voice on the other end was surprised. “I need to be out of the country in ten days,” I said, my voice so cold it scared even me. “Get me to Switzerland. And make sure the Corvos never find me.” “Understood.” I hung up and took a deep, shaky breath. My own countdown had begun. This time, it would be a real rebirth. Chapter 3 I walked back to the entrance, my face a blank mask. They were acting like nothing had happened. I played along, linking my arm with Orion’s. “Time to go home?” Home. The penthouse he used to sleep with me. I guess that’s what it was. Sienna was still there, wearing that smug smile. “Perfect timing. There’s a game tonight, and Orion said you’re invited. I was worried a little princess like you couldn't handle it.” Orion wrapped his arm around my waist, gave me a quick, possessive kiss, and led me to the car. We arrived at his underground den, a place reserved for his inner circle. In the dim light, men were crowded around several poker tables. Stacks of chips worth a small fortune sat in front of each player. “Tonight’s buy-in is ten million,” Orion whispered in my ear. “Want to play?” I nodded. For five years, I wasn’t just his art expert. I was his right hand. A photographic memory, a mind for psychological games, a knack for numbers—I thrived in places like this. We sat down. Our opponents were a few older men in expensive suits, all key players from other families. “The beauty is playing?” one of the bald men asked, eyeing me. “Of course.” Orion pushed a stack of chips in front of me. “My woman never disappoints.” The first hand was dealt. I calmly watched everyone, their tells, their bets, calculating the odds. The bald man always touched his nose when he was bluffing. The skinny guy to my left sat up straighter when he had a good hand. The fat guy across from me would start breathing faster. I won the first hand. Then the second. Then the third. Orion sat behind me, his hand resting on my shoulder, his eyes filled with pride and possession. “See?” he said to the others. “That’s my woman. An angel with brains and beauty.” I felt nothing. My woman. To him, I was just another beautiful thing he owned. As I leaned forward to collect my chips, my gaze dropped under the table. I froze. Sienna’s foot. She was sitting next to Orion. I hadn't even noticed. She was wearing black, strappy heels, and her foot was tracing circles on the inside of Orion’s thigh. Right through the expensive fabric of his suit. I could see the bulge growing under the table. And Orion? He held his cards without a tremor, his expression unchanged. My heart pounded, blood rushing to my head. “Evangeline?” Orion noticed I’d gone stiff. “I’m fine,” I forced myself to sit up straight. “Let’s keep playing.” But my hands were shaking. I started making mistakes. My advantage slipped away. My chips dwindled. “What’s wrong?” Orion whispered. “Don’t you feel well?” “I’m fine.” For the final hand, Sienna suddenly spoke up. “I want in.” She sat across from me, a smirk on her red lips. “Of course,” the other men welcomed her. The pot was fifty million dollars. Sienna was a surprisingly good player. She was aggressive, pushing everyone into a corner. In the end, she won. “Congratulations, Miss Rossi,” the men applauded. “Thank you.” Sienna stood up and walked over to Orion. “But it’s not the money I want.” She paused, her eyes locking with mine in a clear challenge. “I want… the new shipping route to South America.” My heart stopped. I had spent countless sleepless nights designing that route. It bypassed every customs checkpoint. It was worth hundreds of millions. “Orion, you promised me,” Sienna cooed. “If I won, I’d get what I wanted.” Orion lazily flicked the ash from his cigarette and glanced at me. “If you like it, it’s yours.” Those six words hit me like a bolt of lightning. I shot to my feet, my chair scraping loudly against the floor. “Evangeline?” Everyone turned to look at me. I didn’t answer. I just turned and ran from the smoke-filled room. I heard Orion’s footsteps behind me. “Evangeline, wait!” He caught me in the hallway, pinning me against the cold wall. “Jealous?” he asked, a hint of pleasure in his voice. “My girl, you’re the only one for me. I’ll make it up to you when we get home.” The only one? Then why was he marrying someone else without even telling me? The words were on the tip of my tongue, but I swallowed them. It was already past midnight. Nine days left until I was gone. After he dropped me off at the penthouse, he said he had some family business to handle and left. I didn’t know if he was going to see Sienna. If he was going to press her against a wall and answer the invitation she’d given him under the poker table. A sharp pain shot through my chest, but I said nothing. Just as he was about to leave, a bodyguard rushed over with a velvet box. “Boss, it’s here.” Orion took the box, opened it, and nodded in satisfaction. I glanced over, my heart skipping a beat. It was a massive diamond. The Regent Diamond, rumored to have once been part of the British Crown Jewels. I had dreamed of that diamond. I had told him about it countless times. Was this his way of making it up to me? A flicker of hope ignited in me. I instinctively reached for it. But in the next second, Orion snapped the box shut, a flash of annoyance in his eyes. The message was clear. The diamond, like his future, had nothing to do with me. Chapter 4 My hand, suspended in mid-air, fell back to my side. I rubbed my fingers together, not knowing what to say. Orion seemed to realize he’d been harsh. He gave me a soft smile. “You like it? I’ll get you something better. This one’s for something else.” I forced a polite smile. Something else. He walked out with the diamond of my dreams, not even looking back. The click of the closing door was deafening in the silence. My smile vanished. He was going to give the diamond I’d always wanted to another woman. In the middle of the night. Did he think I was too stupid to care? Or did he just not care if my heart broke? Standing in the empty apartment, I remembered his last words in my past life: “I love you… I’ve always loved you…” So this is what love was worth. This is how foolish I could be. I walked to the safe hidden in the bedroom. I took out every piece of jewelry, every work of art Orion had given me over the last five years. I photographed them all and sent them to the biggest black market auction house in Europe. The tagline: “The collection of Don Corvo’s ex-lover. Highest bidder wins.” Pearls, sapphires, antique scrolls—a mess of priceless things. I called the auction house director on an encrypted line. “I’m selling everything Orion ever gave me. You in?” He was shocked. “Everything? This is all top-tier stuff. Did you two have a falling out? He’s not gonna be happy about you selling his gifts.” My eyes went dark. “He won’t even notice.” He was too busy with Sienna to notice me. Orion didn't come home that night. The next day, the auction preview went live and sent a shockwave through the underworld. Orion stormed back, his face a thundercloud. Looking at his dark expression, I just smiled, showing no guilt. “They’re out of style. I don’t like them anymore.” I even walked up to him, took his jacket like I always did, and kissed his cheek. “You’ve been up all night. Want some calming soup? I’ll make it for you.” My gentle concern seemed to soothe him. His expression softened. “Leo is coming to Chicago later. He said he has a surprise for you. I’ll take you to see him.” Leo. My brother. The youngest district attorney in New York history, but ruthless enough to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Orion. He pulled a pink diamond necklace from his pocket, moved my hair aside, and fastened it around my neck. “You’re a De Luca princess. If your brother sees you without any decent jewelry, he’ll think I’m mistreating you.” But all I could think about was the diamond from last night. I had to laugh at myself. Wasn’t he mistreating me? Twenty minutes later, we were at one of Orion’s restaurants. Leo was already in a private room. When he saw me, a flicker of worry crossed his face. “Eva, you look thin. Mom and Dad have been worried. We supported you coming to Chicago, but isn’t it time you came home and settled down? They’ve already picked out some marriage candidates…” At the word “marriage,” Orion, who had been lazily smoking a cigar, suddenly stiffened and stubbed it out. He swirled his wine. Under the table, his foot found my calf, tracing lazy circles. A clear, possessive claim. But his words were casual. He feigned curiosity. “Eva, I’ve taken care of you for five years, and I still don’t know what kind of man you like. Tell me.” I’d always been the good, obedient girl. It was only after being reborn that I dared to defy my family, follow Orion, and have a secret five-year affair with him. Before, a question like this in front of my brother would have made me blush and stammer. But this time, I subtly knocked his foot away under the table and answered calmly, “I like a gentleman. Someone kind, loyal… someone outside of this world of blood and conflict.” In other words, the exact opposite of Orion. “You two chat. I’m going to the restroom.” The smile vanished from Orion’s face. His eyes went dark. I caught his expression out of the corner of my eye but didn’t care. Eight days left. I’d be gone soon enough. But as I stepped out of the women’s restroom, a hand shot out, grabbed my waist, and dragged me into the empty men’s room next door. Click. The stall door locked. A large hand clamped over my mouth, stifling my gasp. In the cramped, dim space, his sharp gaze burned right through me. I struggled, frowning. How could he drag me in here? What if my brother… Seeing my anger, a dangerous smile played on his lips. He leaned in, his voice a low growl. “Gentle? Loyal?” he growled, his voice a low threat. “Since when do you like weak men?” Before I could answer, his tall frame pressed against me. He grabbed my chin and crashed his lips onto mine. I raised my hands to push him away, but then I heard Leo’s voice from outside— “Orion, do you think my sister is seeing someone? You better keep a close eye on her. And keep your filthy men away from her.” Chapter 5 Orion’s kiss was rough and punishing. I winced in pain and bit down. Hard. “Ngh—” The metallic taste of blood filled my mouth. I’d split his lip. He hissed in pain but held me tighter, one hand still covering my mouth while he pressed a finger to his own lips, signaling for silence. He forced his voice to sound steady as he answered Leo. “Don’t worry. My men wouldn’t dare.” Leo scoffed. “The De Luca family’s daughter will never marry into the mob. Make sure your men get that through their heads. You watch her, and you watch yourself.” “Leo, relax,” Orion’s voice was unreadable. “I’ll protect her.” “Protect her?” Leo laughed coldly. “The best protection is keeping her out of your world.” The footsteps faded. Once Leo was gone, Orion finally let me go. He gently wiped the moisture from the corner of my mouth, and the blood from his own. “You bit me. Feel better now?” I looked down, didn’t answer, and pushed open the door. I had just sat down when Orion followed me back to the table. Leo’s eyes narrowed as he saw Orion’s swollen lip. He glanced at my own slightly reddened mouth, and his expression turned cold and complicated. “What happened to your mouth?” Leo finally asked, his tone flat but carrying the weight of a prosecutor’s interrogation. Orion’s eyes flicked to me. He let out a low, suggestive laugh. “Nothing. Just got bit by a little wildcat with claws.” I stared down at my water glass and said nothing. Leo didn't seem to notice the undercurrent between us. He just snorted and repeated his warning. “My sister has helped you for a few years. It’s time for her to go home. Her future husband must have a clean record.” Orion’s expression flickered for a second, then he put on a careless smile. “Of course. She’s a princess.” Leo stood up to leave. “It’s getting late. I have to get back to New York.” He came to my side and pulled a manila envelope from his suit. “Eva, here are a few good candidates.” I took the envelope. Inside were several detailed profiles. The men in the photos were all handsome. A Wall Street investment banker, a surgeon from Harvard Medical School, a young federal judge. “All elites with clean family backgrounds,” Leo said. “Mom and Dad approve.” I could feel Orion’s eyes on me, sharp as knives. “Thanks, brother.” I stood up. In front of both men, I ripped the profiles to shreds, one by one. The pieces of paper fluttered down like snowflakes. Then I threw them all in the trash. “Eva?” Leo stared at me, shocked. “I don’t want to get married right now,” I said flatly. Leo frowned but didn’t push. “Alright. When you’re ready, we’ll talk.” He patted my shoulder, then looked at Orion. “Take care of her.” After Leo left, it was just me and Orion in the room. He walked over, the possessiveness in his eyes almost overflowing. “Why did you rip them up?” he asked softly, but I heard the danger in his voice. “Because I didn’t want to look at them.” “Really?” He leaned closer, his warm breath on my ear. “Or is it because you can’t bear to leave me?” I didn’t answer. His voice dropped to a low, seductive whisper. “I want to see you in a wedding dress. Just for me.” “I may not be able to marry you, but I’ll buy you every wedding dress in the world. You can wear them all for me. In private.” I ignored his husky voice, pushed him away, and walked out. I knew. In this lifetime, I would never wear a wedding dress for Orion Corvo. The next day, with seven days left, my doorbell rang. It was Sienna. She wore a white suit, the shipping route plans in her hand. “Here to take over,” she said with a brilliant smile. “Orion says this route is mine now.” I let her in and poured two cups of tea. “Thank you for all your hard work.” Sienna flipped through the documents. “This route is genius. It bypasses everything.” “You’re welcome,” I said calmly. “By the way,” Sienna put down her cup, “I’m having a little party at my estate tonight to celebrate our new partnership. Want to come?” “No.” “What a shame.” She feigned disappointment. “But Orion will be there. We’re going to have so much fun.” Her words were loaded, but I pretended not to understand. Whatever she meant, it didn't matter. Orion and I were ending. No matter how much it hurt, no matter how hard it was to let go, I would cut him out of my future, piece by piece. After she left, I soaked in a hot bath, letting my mind go blank. Slowly, I started to feel clear-headed again. I was just about to fall asleep when my phone started ringing, again and again. I had to get out, wrap myself in a robe, and answer. A frantic voice came through the line. “Miss De Luca, the boss is at the club, he’s had too much to drink. Can you come pick him up?” Before I could answer, they hung up. Picking up a drunk Orion had become my job over the past five years. If they were calling me, it meant he was drinking himself to death. I threw on some clothes and was at the underground club in twenty minutes. I reached the heavy oak door. It was cracked open just enough. A wave of unease washed over me. With a trembling hand, I pushed it open. The next second, I was struck by lightning. On the sofa, Sienna was straddling Orion, wearing nothing but his white silk shirt. Only two buttons were fastened. His hands were clamped on her waist, their bodies tangled together. I could hear them. Sienna’s breathy moans. Orion’s low groans. Chapter 6 My hand gripped the doorknob, my knuckles white. My heart felt like it had been crushed in a fist. The pain was so sharp I couldn't breathe. I stumbled back, almost hitting the wall. Run. That was my only thought. I burst out of the club, got in my car, and floored it. Chicago’s skyline blurred past, but I saw nothing. The only thing in my mind was that scene. Back at the penthouse, I collapsed onto the carpet. Every memory in this golden cage was now a weapon. That Italian leather sofa where we watched countless movies. That Steinway piano he played Chopin’s Nocturnes on for me. That floor-length mirror where he held me and told me I was the most beautiful woman in the world. Now, those memories were like shards of glass, cutting me to pieces. I curled into a ball, hugging my knees. The clock struck midnight. I took a few deep breaths, fighting back the stabbing pain in my chest, and shakily got to my feet. “It’s a new day, Evangeline. Six days left. Then you can leave.” Then the pain would stop. I kept repeating the number, using it as an anchor to keep from drowning. At 4 a.m., the sound of the lock turning startled me awake. Orion was back. He reeked of stale liquor and another woman’s perfume. He stumbled through the darkness toward the bedroom. The moment his body came near me, I instinctively clutched the covers and scrambled away. He wasn’t angry. He just opened his hazy gray eyes, smiled, and ruffled my hair. He was barely conscious. “Just wanted to kiss you, but I woke you up.” He climbed into bed, rolled over, and pulled me—and the entire duvet—into his arms. “Evangeline, I love you, I love you so much…” “We have to be… together… forever and ever…” He mumbled into my ear, his words thick with a drunken tenderness I no longer wanted. My body went rigid. He was whispering words of love, but every single one felt so filthy it made me want to throw up. He still smelled of Sienna, and now he was telling me he loved me? What did he take me for? Why did he think I would stay by his side after he married her? I waited until he was fast asleep, then I slipped out of his arms. I tried to sleep on the sofa but couldn't. Instead, I started reading through art files for Switzerland, anything to distract myself. The next morning, Orion was up early. He changed into a dark blue, custom-made suit, his hair perfectly styled. “Evangeline, I know I upset you the last couple of days. There’s a party tonight.” He walked over to me. “Come with me? Let me make it up to you.” Without waiting for an answer, he pulled me out the door. The banquet hall was filled with the core members of his family, all powerful figures in the mafia world. Sienna was there, of course, in a stunning blood-red evening gown. “Well, well, Don. We’ve all heard how you spoil your little De Luca girl. She’s even prettier in person.” Hearing this, Orion put an arm around my shoulder and pulled me closer. “Damn right,” Orion said, pulling me closer. “She’s mine. So keep your fucking mouths shut.” The room erupted in laughter. Dozens of teasing glances were thrown my way. Someone handed us two glasses of wine, goading us to drink together. But their eyes kept darting to Sienna. I may have been a good girl, but I grew up in New York’s world of power. I knew exactly what was happening. They were watching a show. Sienna just smiled, resting her chin on her hand. She met my gaze without flinching, her eyes full of provocation. “Alright,” Orion said, his voice light as he raised his glass. “Evangeline is the De Luca family’s princess. She’ll always be my… little sister.” A jolt went through me. Sienna looked up, her smile widening. “Since she’s your sister, you’ll have to give her a big wedding gift. When are you planning on getting married, Evangeline?” I looked up at Orion, my smile a blade. “Maybe that depends on if the man I’m waiting for ever asks.” The smile on Orion’s face faltered. He tried to laugh it off. “Okay, okay. Anyway, I don’t believe in marriage. I only love one person, for life. And the person I love must always be by my side.” He was staring straight at me when he said it, like he was making a sacred promise. As the teasing died down, I saw Sienna lean closer to Orion out of the corner of my eye. Her fingers slipped inside the open collar of his shirt. I saw her fingertips trace paths across his chest, right over the spot where the initial of my name, “E,” was tattooed. Leaving faint, suggestive scratches. He got that tattoo for me on my 20th birthday. He said he wanted to carve me onto his heart, so he would never forget. Orion, is this what you meant by loving only one? Chapter 7 My champagne flute shattered on the floor. I didn’t even feel it slip. Everyone stared at me. “It’s nothing. I’m just going to get some air.” I forced a smile and left the room. I could hear the whispers behind me. “Looks like Miss De Luca isn’t in a good mood.” “Well, the Don is getting married. Of course his ‘little sister’ is upset.” “Haha, women. They know their place, but they still get jealous.” Sienna’s laughter was the loudest. “It’s fine. Girls get emotional.” I leaned against a cold wall in the hallway outside, taking deep breaths. Just then, I heard hushed voices from inside the room. “Marco, you think the boss is really getting married?” “Of course, he is.” That was Marco’s voice. “Why do you think he kept that De Luca girl around?” My heart stopped. “Isn’t it because he loves her?” “Love?” Marco scoffed. “The Don was just playing with her. He kept her around for five years to show Miss Rossi how ‘loyal’ he could be.” “What do you mean?” “Think about it. A man who stays faithful to one woman for five years? That’s some deep shit. That’s what Miss Sienna was looking for.” My legs started to feel weak. “So… the boss planned to marry Sienna all along?” “Naturally. The alliance between our families was his plan from the start. The De Luca girl? She was just the bait.” I bit my lip so hard I could taste blood. My nails dug into my palms. Five years. For five years, I was just a pawn in his game. I trembled as I turned to leave, but I accidentally bumped into a glass door. In the reflection, I saw what was happening inside the banquet hall. Sienna was sitting on Orion’s lap, her slender fingers tracing his jawline. “You’re terrible,” she purred, tracing his jaw. “And you know I’m generous enough not to mind your little collection of women.” “Orion,” she tugged on his tie, forcing him to look up, her voice a hot, challenging whisper. “Be honest. Me or her? Who makes you crazier in bed?” I held my breath, waiting for his answer. He let out a hoarse laugh, his hand sliding down to her thigh. “You, of course, my little wildcat.” “She’s too good. No challenge at all.” “But you…” His hand moved higher up her leg. “You always leave me wanting more.” I couldn’t listen anymore. Just as they were about to kiss, I slammed the door open. I marched over to him, my eyes burning, and slapped him across the face. “Orion Corvo,” I spat out each word. “You are a bastard.” Dead silence. Orion’s head was turned to the side, frozen. I didn’t spare him another glance. I just ran. The cold wind cut into me like a knife, but I felt no pain. A sob was caught in my throat, choking me. For five years, I thought I was his only one. I thought those nights of tangled sheets and whispered secrets meant something to him, too. But I was just a boring toy. Back at the penthouse, a silent emptiness greeted me. Looking around this golden cage we had shared for five years, I couldn't hold back the rage and despair anymore. The liquor cabinet where we’d shared a glass of whiskey. The shelves holding the rare art he’d bought for me. The record player with my favorite Moonlight Sonata, the song we’d danced to on countless nights. I smashed it all. Sitting in the wreckage, I fell apart. Orion’s voice echoed in my head, a cruel mantra. “Evangeline, I’ll always love you.” “Evangeline, we’ll be together forever.” “Evangeline, you have to stay by my side forever…” “Evangeline…” “Evangeline…” The promises were all a lie. Every beautiful memory turned into a blade, slicing away the last bit of love I had for him. The broken glass cut my skin. I didn't feel a thing. A bitter hatred bloomed in my heart. I was going to make a bet. I was going to bet that when I left, Orion would hurt just as much as I did. Just then, a tired, hoarse voice came from behind me. “You’ve hit me, you’ve smashed everything. Feel better now? Evangeline, let’s talk.” I turned. Orion was leaning against the doorframe, pinching the bridge of his nose in exhaustion. He walked toward me, stepping over the debris. In his eyes, I saw my reflection—a mess. Red-eyed, hair a disaster. I was no longer the princess of the De Luca family. No longer the elegant Miss Evangeline of the art world. I shoved away his hand as he tried to embrace me. For the first time, I was cold and distant. “Orion Corvo, we’re over.” His face changed. He didn’t answer right away, just stared at me, his eyes dark and terrifying. After a long moment, he let out a low, humorless laugh. “Don’t be so dramatic. There’s no ‘over’ for us.” “You knew who I was when you got into my bed,” he said, his voice dangerously low. “What’s changed?” Tears streamed down my face. My heart was being ripped in two. “Yes, you’ve always been this person. It was my mistake. I was a fool to think you were different…” The memory of my last life, of him dying for me, was too strong. It made me forget that after being reborn, I had changed. And so had Orion. Maybe I was wrong from the start, from the moment I decided to follow him at eighteen. My broken sobs must have gotten to him. He sighed and tried to soften his tone. “Sienna and I are just a business arrangement.” “No one can ever take your place in my heart. We can go back to how things were, can’t we?” “Get out.” My voice was quiet, my expression numb, but it was enough to finally anger him. He scowled, gave me one last look, and left without turning back. The door slammed shut. I collapsed onto the sofa. I forced myself not to think about the five wasted years. I pulled myself together, cleaned up, and went to bed. He’s not the man who took a bullet for you, I told myself. He’s not the man who died for you. I repeated it until my eyes were dry and I couldn’t cry anymore. I finally fell into a heavy sleep. But even in my dreams, I couldn’t escape the ghost of Orion, his love and his cruelty tangled together. The next morning, I woke up with swollen eyes but managed to make myself look presentable. I needed to go to the bank to get my passport and emergency funds. But when the bank manager opened my safety deposit box, I froze. It was empty. “How is this possible?” I whispered, my voice shaking. “I’m sorry, Miss De Luca.” The manager checked his records. “Someone withdrew everything last night with a letter of authorization.” “Authorization?” “Yes. Mr. Corvo said it was on your instruction.” My blood ran cold. I stormed out of the bank and went straight to Orion’s office. I threw the door open. “Where are my things?” Inside, Sienna was sitting on Orion’s lap, her face flushed as if she’d just been kissed. My breath caught in my throat. “What is she doing here?” “She’s going to be my wife,” Orion said, his voice flat. “That means she can go wherever she pleases.” Chapter 8 “And,” Orion picked up a set of blueprints from his desk, “I’m having your old study redecorated.” My heart hammered against my ribs. That study was my life’s work for the past five years. It held all my intelligence files, every smuggling route I designed. And that antique Italian desk—it was the first gift Orion ever gave me. “To Sienna’s taste,” he added, his voice casual. “She likes pink and white. Says it’s more feminine.” Sienna slid off his lap, smoothing her skirt. “Thank you, darling. I never liked that dreary, dark decor anyway.” She looked at me, her eyes glinting with triumph. “I hope you don’t mind. After all, it’s going to be my studio now.” My nails dug into my palms, nearly breaking the skin. I knew I would be replaced. I just didn’t think it would be this fast. I stood there, frozen, my hands clenched into fists, a bitter smile on my lips. It didn’t matter. None of it mattered anymore. I wasn’t going to make the same mistake again. A passport can be replaced. A love that’s been tainted… can be thrown away. “Do whatever you want.” I turned and walked out. Before heading back to the penthouse, I used my family’s channels to get an expedited replacement for my passport. For the next few days, Orion didn't come back. It was our first cold war. The next time I saw him was at a massive charity gala. Tomorrow was the day I would leave. The gala was packed with the elite of Chicago and beyond. I wore a simple, elegant black Valentino gown. The moment I walked in, I saw Orion and Sienna. She was in a fire-engine red, backless dress, clinging to his arm, her smile radiant. It was the first time we’d seen each other since our fight. I said nothing. I wanted no more drama. After the dinner, the ball began. Sienna immediately stood and offered her hand to Orion. “Orion, may I have the honor of the first dance?” I saw Orion look at me. I knew why. On important occasions like this, we had always danced together. But I was leaving tomorrow. I wasn’t going to get involved in whatever he had with Sienna. I just sat there quietly, saying nothing. Orion’s face darkened. He looked angry. He put his arm around Sienna and led her to the dance floor. “Of course. I’ll dance with you for as long as you want.” As I forced myself not to watch them, a smooth voice spoke from behind me. I turned to see a handsome man with blond hair and blue eyes. “Miss Evangeline, I’m William Harrison, a reporter for the New York Times.” He offered his hand. “It’s an honor.” “Hello.” I shook his hand politely. “May I have this dance?” I hesitated for a second, then nodded. “Of course.” This time, I didn’t refuse another man’s invitation. William was a wonderful dancer. As we moved across the floor, his witty conversation made me forget my troubles for a moment. “You have a beautiful smile,” he whispered in my ear. Just then, a powerful hand clamped down on my wrist. “Excuse me.” Orion stood before us, his face a dark storm cloud. “Mr. Corvo—” William started to say, but Orion’s glare silenced him. “We need to talk.” He dragged me off the dance floor without another word, pulling me through the crowd to a deserted balcony. The moonlight washed over us as he slammed me into his arms. He gritted his teeth, his voice a vicious whisper in my ear. “Dancing with another man right in front of me? You’ve gotten bold.” His grip on my waist was crushing, as if he wanted to merge my body with his. “So what?” I broke free from his hold. “My private life is none of your business.” “None of my business?” He sneered. “Evangeline, you are my—” “I’m not!” I cut him off. “You’re getting married! I’m not anything of yours!” He froze, then stalked toward me. “Is that so? Let’s put that to the test.” The next second, he pinned me against the balcony railing and kissed me, his mouth savage and demanding. His kiss was full of possession and rage, as if he wanted to devour me whole. All my recent pain and heartbreak boiled over. I shoved him away, my voice cold. “I told you, there’s nothing between us anymore.” I turned and walked back to my dance partner, ignoring the burning gaze on my back. The first dance ended. A spotlight hit the stage, and Orion walked up with Sienna. He stood in the center of the dance floor, his eyes locked on me. “Tonight, I have some good news to share.” “Next week, I will be marrying Miss Sienna Rossi. This is not just the union of two people, but an alliance between two great families.” Sienna beamed, the massive pink diamond on her finger flashing under the lights. The hall erupted in cheers and applause. I watched calmly, even clapping along. But my heart ached with a pain so sharp I could barely breathe. No. He’s getting married next week, and I’m leaving tomorrow. This is a good thing. I downed a glass of champagne and turned to leave. As I passed the hotel garden’s fountain, Sienna blocked my path. “Miss De Luca. You’ve been with Orion for five years. It must hurt to see him marry me.” I laughed, a cold, sharp sound. “You two deserve each other. One a gold-digger, the other a liar. A perfect match.” “You can talk all you want. You’re just jealous Orion is marrying me,” she said with a raised eyebrow. As she spoke, she took a few steps back, closer to the fountain’s edge. The moonlight reflecting on the water was eerie. “I’ve always been curious,” Sienna said suddenly. “What are you and Orion like in bed?” My face flushed. “Did he ever tell you how boring you are?” “You—” “Because that’s what he told me.” Her smile turned wild. “He said you’re like a wooden doll. No challenge at all.” My breathing grew ragged. “And me? He can’t get enough of me.” She licked her lips. “Let’s see if you’re really as unfazed as you claim.” Before I could react, Sienna screamed, stumbling backward. She grabbed my hand, pulling me with her. As she hit the water, her hand flew to her stomach. “The baby! Orion, save our baby!” The next thing I knew, I was being dragged into the freezing water. Water flooded my nose and mouth. I struggled, finally breaking the surface. I saw Orion dive in. I instinctively reached for him, screaming for help. “Orion! I can’t swim! Help me…” But I watched, horrified, as he swam right past me and pulled Sienna out of the water. I started to sink again. Orion was already on the edge, holding Sienna. For a split second, our eyes met across the water. His were cold. Empty. Like he was looking at a stranger already dead. Then he turned his back on me and strode away. Chapter 9 A lungful of cold water choked off my breath. I closed my eyes in despair. This is it. I’m going to die. My consciousness began to fade… I don’t know how much time passed before the estate’s security pulled me from the water. I was soaked, my lips purple, coughing violently on the side of the pool. Icy water poured from my lungs, tasting of rust. Not far away, Orion was carrying Sienna into the manor. “Get a doctor!” his voice was urgent, filled with worry. “Sienna is pregnant!” Pregnant? I froze, my mind a complete blank. So last night… they didn’t just… “Miss De Luca, are you alright?” a guard asked. I shook my head and struggled to my feet. My wet dress clung to my body. I wrapped my arms around myself and walked toward the house. The doctor was already there, examining Sienna. “The baby is fine, but Miss Rossi is in shock. She needs to rest.” Orion let out a breath of relief, squeezing Sienna’s hand. “Thank God.” Just then, he noticed me standing in the doorway, drenched. His gray eyes turned as sharp and cold as daggers. “Evangeline.” His voice was devoid of any warmth. He pointed a finger at me, his voice a blade of ice. “Apologize. To Sienna.” “What?” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. “You pushed her. You almost killed my child.” Orion’s voice was terrifyingly cold. “Apologize.” “I didn’t push her!” I tried to explain. “She—” “Enough!” He shot to his feet. “I saw you push her with my own eyes!” “Orion, listen to me—” “Apologize!” His roar made the windows rattle. I looked at his twisted, furious face, and my heart turned to ash. “I won’t apologize for something I didn’t do.” On the bed, Sienna spoke weakly. “Orion, don’t blame Evangeline… She only did it because she loves you so much…” Tears rolled down her pale, innocent face. She looked so pitiful. “I know she can’t accept our marriage, but the baby is innocent… If she really can’t forgive me, I can leave…” Her words sealed my fate. The jealous woman who tried to drown her rival. Orion’s face grew even darker. “No, you’re not leaving.” He looked at me, his eyes stripped of all their former affection. “She is.” He stalked toward me, his voice a death sentence. “If you don’t apologize to Sienna, you can get the hell out of my world.” I looked at the man who had once taken a bullet for me, and I started to laugh. “Fine.” I turned to leave. “Evangeline!” Orion roared behind me. “You stop right there!” I ignored them. I walked out, grabbed my coat, and though I was a shivering, soaking mess, I held my head high. I walked away, one step at a time. Back at the penthouse, I packed my last few things. By the time I was done, the clock on the wall read 3 a.m. It was Christmas Eve. Time for me to go. Just as Orion wanted. I was getting out of his world. Forever. I numbly walked to the bed, picked up my encrypted phone, and called the extraction team my brother had arranged. “Get ready now. We’re meeting at the private airfield. I want to get to Switzerland sooner.” The person on the other end must have heard the desperation in my voice. They agreed immediately. I hung up, turned, and froze. Orion was standing in the doorway, his eyes like ice. I didn’t know how long he’d been there, or how much he’d heard. I didn’t care. I just picked up my suitcase and started to walk out. He grabbed my wrist as I passed him. He was a mess. His hair was disheveled, his eyes were bloodshot and filled with a storm of emotions. His voice was hoarse. “I was angry. I said some things I shouldn't have. But you’re really leaving over this? Over a fucking apology?” “It’s not about the apology, Orion,” I said, my voice dangerously calm. “It’s about who you chose.” “Get what?” “You chose to believe her, not me. You chose to save her, not me.” He was stunned into silence. “What does that tell you? It tells me she will always be more important than me.” I pushed him away. “So why should I stay?” “Evangeline—” “Move.” He gripped my suitcase, refusing to let go. “You can’t leave.” “Why not?” “Because…” He paused for a long time. “Because I won’t allow it.” I laughed, a laugh born from absolute despair. “You won’t allow it? Orion, I am not your prisoner.” He pulled a gold-embossed invitation from his pocket and shoved it into my hand. “Come to my wedding.” His voice was a command. “We both know you love me, and I love you. You can’t leave me. If you come, things will go back to the way they were.” I looked down at the beautiful invitation. You are cordially invited to the wedding of Orion Corvo & Sienna Rossi. The words burned my eyes. “Orion,” I looked up at him, a smile on my face. “You want me to attend your wedding to another woman? Are you that sure I won’t actually leave you?” Maybe my gaze was too sharp, because he looked away. He cleared his throat, his tone softening. “I’ll explain the thing with Sienna later. In my heart, you two are different.” My calmness must have unsettled him. He pulled me into a hard embrace, as if to reassure himself. “I’m sorry I made you angry. It was my fault.” “But trust me. I’ll give you the future you want. Eventually.” Even now, he wouldn’t back down. He still expected me to just take it. How arrogant. Was he that certain I would obey? I composed myself, looked up at him calmly, and used the most affectionate tone I once reserved for him. “If you love me, then cancel the wedding.” “Her or me. You can only pick one. Who is it going to be?” Our eyes met. Slowly, he let me go. Disappointment and exhaustion filled his face. “The wedding can’t be canceled.” I smiled. I already knew that would be his answer. I hadn’t really expected him to choose me. Two lifetimes of devotion, five years of chasing him. In this moment, I finally had my closure. I was finally letting go. Still smiling, I picked up my suitcase one last time. “Fine, Orion. Then we’re done.” “I wish you and Sienna a happy marriage. May you grow old together.” I dragged my suitcase toward the door. He roared, his voice cracking with rage. “If you walk out that door, Evangeline, don't you fucking ever come back!” I stopped, my back ramrod straight. “I wasn’t planning on it.” The elevator doors slowly closed, and Orion’s furious face disappeared in the shrinking gap. Downstairs, a black Mercedes was waiting. The driver put my luggage in the trunk. “To the airport,” I said, sliding into the back seat. The car pulled away from the building, away from the city, away from the five-year nightmare. I didn’t look back. I knew that everything behind me no longer had anything to do with me. In my last life, Orion and I were not meant to be. In this life, it was the same. As the sun broke through the clouds, bathing the world in gold, I looked toward the dawn. From this day forward, I would have my true rebirth. From now on, Orion Corvo and I would never meet again. Chapter 10 Orion's POV The butler hovered nervously. “Boss, should we go after her? Miss De Luca seems serious this time.” I stared out the floor-to-ceiling window, my face a mask of stone. “No.” It wasn’t the first time she’d thrown a fit. I lit a cigarette and took a long drag. Her last words echoed in my head: I wish you and Sienna a happy marriage. May you grow old together. That wasn’t like her. The Evangeline I knew would be heartbroken but defiant, stubbornly silent. This… this was a challenge. A gamble. The most venomous curse she could think of. Smoke curled from my lips as I let out a low laugh. I understood. She was bluffing. Trying to force my hand. She was so sure I couldn’t live without her, so sure I loved her more than anything. So she staged this dramatic exit right before my wedding, waiting for me to make a choice. The moment I destroyed my own alliance for her, she would come running back. “She’s just my spoiled little wildcat, throwing a tantrum,” I muttered, confidence flowing back into me. She was my treasure, the woman I had cherished for five years. Where else could she go but back to me? Her tears, her tantrums—they were all just little games to make me love her more. “Let her go,” I told the butler. “Let her cool off for a few days. She’ll be back on my wedding day.” The next day, St. Mary’s Cathedral was under heavy security. The century-old Gothic church was a fairytale of white roses and crystal chandeliers. Every person who mattered in Chicago was there. Politicians, business tycoons, and the heads of the major crime families. All waiting for the wedding of the century. But my mind was elsewhere. I stood at the altar, checking my watch again and again. Each time I looked, my frown deepened, the irritation on my face growing more obvious. 2:00 PM. The wedding was supposed to start. But there was no sign of her. “Boss,” Marco leaned in, whispering. “Should we start? The guests are getting restless.” “Wait,” my voice was tight. My eyes scanned every corner of the church, desperately searching for her. She’ll come. She has to come. She was just throwing a tantrum, trying to make me prove how much I cared. Just like every other time for the past five years. No matter what I did, she would pout, but in the end, she always came back to me. 2:30 PM. The guests were starting to fidget. The whispers grew louder. Sienna’s father, old man Rossi, was starting to look furious. “Orion,” he hissed, his voice laced with a threat. “What the hell are you waiting for?” “Nothing. We’ll start in a minute,” I said, forcing a smile. But my eyes were still glued to the entrance. She had to be on her way. Maybe there was traffic. Maybe she was getting ready, planning to make a grand entrance, to show me she was more beautiful than any bride. 3:00 PM. The guests’ patience was wearing thin. People were talking openly now, checking their phones. “Orion!” Sienna stormed over to me, her beautiful face twisted in anger. “Who are you waiting for?” “No one,” I said, avoiding her eyes. “Are you waiting for that bitch?” she spat, her voice a venomous whisper. “She’s not coming! She ran away!” The color drained from my face. “Marco!” I yelled for my right-hand man. “Get every man we have out there! Find Evangeline! I don’t care if you have to tear this city apart, you find her!” Marco hesitated. “Boss, we’ve already looked. She’s not at the penthouse, not at any of her usual spots.” “Then widen the search!” I roared, my voice echoing through the church. Guests turned to stare. “Search all of Chicago!” Sienna’s face was livid. “Orion, are you insane? It’s our wedding day!” “I know!” I growled, yanking at my tie. “But I need to be sure.” 3:30 PM. The atmosphere in the church was painfully awkward. Some guests were getting up to leave. Old man Rossi couldn’t take it anymore. He marched toward me. “Kid, you better have a good explanation!” he bellowed. “You’re humiliating my entire family!” Just then, Marco ran back in. He was pale, like he’d seen a ghost. “Boss…” his voice trembled. “Miss De Luca… she…” “Spit it out!” I grabbed him by the collar. Marco swallowed hard. “Her private jet took off from JFK an hour ago. Destination… unknown.” My blood ran cold. The world stopped spinning. “Impossible…” I muttered, my hand falling away from his collar. “Impossible…” “Boss, what do we do now?” Marco asked timidly. I acted like a madman. I bolted for the exit. “Orion!” Sienna screamed from behind me. “Where are you going?” But I didn’t hear her. I burst out of the church and jumped into my armored Cadillac. “To the airport!” I roared at the driver. “Now!”