Simon drove back to their apartment as fast as he could. He was relieved that Ash was fine, and he was excited to give her his gift. It’s the least that he can do to make his wife happy. He wanted to give her everything, and he's making it happen step by step since he’s not yet that capable. Soon, Ash would be proud of him. He’s been a subject of insult from the Steele family, and he knew that Ash was embarrassed every time his financial standing would be brought up. But everything is about to change.
He parked the car outside the premises of their luxurious apartment and volted to their unit. His steps were frantic and his heart rammed inside his chest.
Upon opening the door, his eyes scanned their apartment, in search of his wife. His heart skipped a beat when their eyes locked.
“Ash, I was so worried about you. You were not picking up my calls, I thought something had happened to you.” Simon wanted to hug Ash, but he chose not to.
Simon found Ash seated on one of the expensive cushioned seats. She’s still in her business attire. The moment Simon entered their apartment, Ash sent him deadly glares.
Simon’s forehead knotted in confusion when he saw a glass of wine in her hand. Next to her was a bottle of one of the most expensive wines in the country, it was half-empty, an indication had Ash had drunk almost half of it.
Wasn’t she supposed to wait for him so that they can enjoy it together?
“Did you drink half of that?” He was shocked. They should have shared that wine since it’s their wedding anniversary. He wondered what had happened for his wife to drink almost half of the wine for a short period of time. She just arrived.
Ash sneered at him. “Who gave you the right to ask me about the things I did? Grandmother called me, she told me you made a scene at the hotel! How dare you do that? Have you no shame? I told you not to show yourself there! Why do you have to embarrass me all the time?"
Despite his wife’s display of attitude, Simon understood that maybe she was drunk that’s why she said those words.
He let out a heave and smiled at her. “I was worried about you, babe. I thought you were in trouble. We agreed to celebrate our wedding anniversary. That’s why I rushed to the hotel to look for you," hr explained.
“Ha! anniversary, my ass! I don’t care about this marriage, what makes you think I will want to celebrate it? It’s my most dreadful day. It’s the day that I was tied to a useless, cheap, and poor guy like you. If it’s not for Grandpa, I would never even spare a glance at someone like you!” Ash scanned him from head to toe, and she looked disgusted at him.
Simon was hurt by her words.
It’s true that he has nothing to offer to his wife’s wealthy family. But he's getting there. He has been working his ass off just so he could give her all her whims and demands. Soon he would be able to collect a huge amount of money, and he will not hesitate to give it all to her, he hoped she could wait for that time.
“I wished Grandpa married me off to a wealthy man, not to trash like you. I don’t understand why he chose you. I deserve someone better!” Ashley continued to pour salt on his wounded ego.
“Ash, please don’t say that.” His voice choked a bit.
“Don’t you dare dictate me! You want to know where I went?” There’s a smug look on her face.
Simon had to swallow the invisible lump in his throat. His heart was beating fast. He had an idea but he doesn't want to think it was possible.
“I had a date with Gregory Holt! One of the richest men in the country. Did you see those gifts?” Ash pointed to a pile of paper bags settled on one corner.
Simon saw the tags and prints on the bags. All are of expensive brands.
He looked at Ash with disbelief in his eyes. He couldn’t believe her. She actually went to have dinner with another man on their wedding anniversary.
“Are you serious?” he asked her, his body shaking as he thought of Ash going out with another man.
“Yes! He has bought me all those expensive gifts that you couldn’t afford! Imagine how sweet he is. He even said that he wanted me to be his wife. I would’ve said yes if I weren’t tied to you.”
Simon fought back the tears that threatened to escape his eyes. No. He’s not going to cry in front of Ash. He will only look weak, and she will despise him even more.
“I was going to give you my gift for our anniversary, Ash.”
“And what do you have? The cheap things that you can only afford? I don’t need those.” Ash’s voice was laced with mockery.
Ashley’s face looks flushed, an indication that she’s drunk that’s why Simon ignored all her insults to him.
“Please, just let me show you my gift, I’m sure you’ll love it.” He was hopeful that Ash would spare a glance at it.
Simon took out the velvet box from the pocket of his pants. He took a step closer to where Ash was sitting.
But before he could even open it, Ash threw the wine glass to Simon and hit him directly in his chest. He ignored the pain of his wife’s rejection. How come she had accepted another man’s gift and refused to even take a look at his present?
“I don’t want that piece of crap!” Ash stood and went past him.
Simon was fast enough to hold her, making her stop leaving.
“You are a useless piece of shit! You only used me for the money. Don’t you dare touch me with your filthy hand!” She swatted his hand that was holding her and walked out of the room without looking back at him.
Simon knew his stand on the Steele family. Ever since they got married, some family members have been insulting him for being penniless.
He opened the velvet box and sadness enveloped his heart as he stared at the ring. It’s a rare pink diamond worth millions of dollars. It’s one of the rarest gems on the planet. People with only money are not be able to buy it. “If only she would take a glance,” Simon whispered to himself.
He closed the velvet box and slipped it back into his pocket. It's their wedding anniversary but his heart feels heavy.
Simon just stared at the retreating back of Ash. The moment that she was out of his sight, he went to the nearest chair and sat exhaustedly. He rubbed his face a few times, in the hopes to get his mind to think straight, but he was totally confused and distracted by their arguments. Did she really went on a date with Gregory Holt? He knew the man. He was one of the richest bachelors in the country. His reputation as a playboy exceeds him. He couldn’t understand why Ash would want someone like Gregory. He's trash. There are tons of scenarios floating in his mind. And he refused to be bothered by those. Does his wife love that man? Gregory Holt was a very capable man, in terms of money and power. Something that he doesn't have. Yet. “No, I won’t allow this.” He needs to talk to Ash to clear things out. He knew she didn't love her anymore. Or did she ever love him in the first place? What they had was just an arranged marriage, she was just forced to marry him because her gran
Simon groaned as he shifted from the bed. His head hurts and he was nauseated. With eyes half-closed, he looked at the window only to find that the sun was already high in the sky. He overslept and he has a hangover. He remembered himself last night getting more alcohol than his body could tolerate. As he struggled to sit on the bed, images from last night came into his memory like an avalanche. Their arguments, the insults, the divorce papers he refused to sign, and the reality that his beloved wife had sex with another man. Simon was once again devoured by the pain of what Ashley did. He realized that he was such a loser for being cheated on like this, not to mention the discrimination he endured from her family. He got drunk last night because he can’t handle the pain and humiliation. He needed to erase that from his memory, he needed an outlet and alcohol was the easiest way. He struggled to get out of bed, he felt like his surroundings were spinning. “Damn, hangovers
Simon packed his things with a heavy heart. This apartment has been his home for almost five years. Yes, they were married for five years, and he realized now that within those five years as a son-in-law of the Steele family, they never really cared for him. On top of all, he was insulted for being penniless and discriminated against for looking shabby all the time. Looking at the empty apartment one last time, Simon left. He still can't go back to his father's house, not until he commands him to go back. Until then, his real identity should be hidden, and he has no right to reveal himself for who he truly was. He will need to look for another apartment to stay in. But first, he needs money. He only had a few coins in his pocket, not enough to sustain himself.Simon took a cab going to one of the biggest banks in New York City, The Bank of New York. “Take me to the Bank of New York.” The cab driver’s eyebrows raised mockingly at Simon. But Simon didn’t mind the insulting smirk
Simon was out for almost five hours looking for a new apartment, but he hasn’t found one yet. All the owners of the apartment he inquired about showed hostile attitudes toward him, and he knew why. Simon looked down at his clothes. They were presentable at some point, but they looked worn out and old-fashioned. Maybe those owners thought that he can’t afford to pay for the monthly rent. Simon decided that he’ll look for an inn to stay for the night if he can’t find an apartment. Luckily for him, he found one just in time. The owner was an old lady who treated him a little bit more civil than the others. “You need to pay the monthly rent in advance.” She opened her wrinkly palm in front of Simon. “It’s one thousand dollars, if you can’t afford it, don’t waste my time.” She told him frankly. Due to exhaustion and hunger, Simon immediately pulled a handful of dollar bills from his backpack and handed it silently to the owner. ''Here it is, a thousand bucks.'' Mrs. Smith look
“Are you the manager of this store?” Gregory asked Willis. Willis recognized Gregory Holt when his mouth gaped open as he stared at him. Simon knew Willis never side with him. With Gregory and Ashley, he’s almost sure Willis will not listen to any of his explanations. “He’s a criminal, he tried to steal my wallet. Do you have any idea how valuable my wallet is?” Ashley hysterically cried. She even held onto Gregory’s arm like she was really traumatized. “I’m so sorry for the trouble, Mr. Gregory, Miss Steele. Simon here is a new employee, On his behalf, I want to apologize. And I will make sure this will never happen again.” Willis turned to the crowd, “Again, I’m sorry for the trouble. “I want that man behind cold bars! I can’t believe someone as lowly as him would try to harm me!” Ashley hysterically said. She feigned shock and fear in her eyes. “God, why did they hire that man? He looks like a criminal!” “I will never shop here again. I can’t believe they hired a psychoti
The Morelli family mansion is a magnificent modern Italian-style mansion. It was situated above a manmade cliff making it look more majestic. In front was a Greek-style fountain, and there was a garden full of different kinds of colorful flowers. The land stretches up to fifty acres of land, and the mansion premises itself occupies one-quarter of its total vast. It’s private property with a high-security setup that would only allow access to authorized personnel.The property has its own helipad, a golf course, and a training ground for their private armies, and inside the mansion houses an armory full of guns and high-powered weapons. Surveillance cameras were installed in every corner of the land to ensure tight security. The control room was situated on the underground level of the mansion. The sky was getting dark as they arrived at the mansion. The remote-controlled gates opened as they enter the mansion’s premises. Butlers, housekeepers, and guards lined up in front of the ma
Simon could feel the warmth in his father’s embrace. He couldn’t remember when he last hugged his father like this. Having Emiliano Morelli for a father was hard enough, being the most feared mafia boss in the city, his father had to maintain a stiff personality and not show even an ounce of tenderness because it will be seen as a weakness. And having a weakness in the underworld means downfall. “I’m so glad you’re here now, son.” His father, Emiliano tapped his cheek and went back to his table. “It’s good to see you back home, Salvatorre.” Federico, the underboss of the clan, stood behind his father’s desk, and both hands were on his back. The man looked dangerously handsome, he was the same age as his father but the difference between the two was so obvious. He looked serious but there was a hidden smile behind his stiff appearance. Simon took a careful step as he went inside the office. It’s been ages since he last entered this room, and the feeling was almost foreign for Sim
Despite Simon’s refusal to have a welcome party for him, his father never listened. A private party was held inside the mansion, exclusive only for those who are part of the Morelli clan. Those who reside within the walls of the mansion enjoyed as they celebrate the return of their master. Unlike some other days, the clan members were smiling and laughing. For the first time in so many years, the Morelli’s mansion looked alive, laughter and music can be heard all throughout the vicinity.Delicious food was served and there was a lot of booze for all. The whole mansion was happy that Simon was back. The clan felt secure now that Simon will take over the business. Simon and Emiliano already had a deal. He wanted his identity to remain hidden as he took over both their legal and illegal business, and his father agreed. But Emiliano is not the big boss of a mafia clan without a reason, he made a deal with Simon. “Father,” Simon called out for Emiliano.Emiliano was on the mansion’s ter
ONE YEAR LATERIt’s been a year since Simon proposed to her at the airport. It was a proposal that no one expected. Simon organized it himself with the help of his friend, Black Scar, one of Hong Kong’s notorious criminals. They got married the next day as Simon didn’t want to waste time. It was a very intimate wedding and only a few guests were invited to that sacred event. Simon even organized it without them noticing his activities. He was so good at hiding things. It was quite weird for Addison because Simon was really never vocal about how he feels about her. And suddenly he proposed! They are not even couples, or he didn’t even confess his love for her even once. Eve so, Addison said yes to his marriage proposal. Why would she decline him? She loves him as much as he loves her. And he had proven himself to her already so many times that Addison knew that what they had was something real and needs to be cherished. Addison couldn’t help but smile while she was checking her mak
The ride going to the airport was long and heart-stopping. The driver did his very best to dodge the cars that were tailing them, but it was a futile attempt. The chase was rough, though those cars did nothing but chase them, it was still rough. “Damn those bastards. What do they want? They just chased us like it was fun for them.” Ryzen shook his head as he looked at the rearview mirror. The driver of the cab did a good job of keeping them at a distance. “Don’t mind them. We will arrive at the airport in less than five minutes now. Be ready. We need to run fast as soon as this cab stops at the entrance of the airport.” Simon instructed them what to do the moment they arrived. “What? Run? But what if these men have guns? I am sure they were the ones who visited us. Damn, these Chinese gangsters!” Silence took over as they sped their way in the street. The night was ripe, it was already ten in the evening, and the streets were packed with people. Addison keeps on looking at the
Fear began to envelop Addison’s chest. These armed men were looking for her and there was no way that she was going to go with them. Addison shook her head. “No. There’s no way I am going with those guys, Simon.” She took a step back, it was an act of self-preservation. Federico took a step forward in front of Addison. His hands were ready to draw guns that were hidden behind his jeans. He’s always prepared when a time like this arises. “I already talked to Black Scar, and I will talk to him again. You can’t just drag my girlfriend out of here.” Simon calmly suggests. His calm demeanor was much more scary than those men with high-powered guns. He smiled politely at those people. “I suggest that you go back now. I will call him to negotiate. Please, I don’t want any ruckus in here.” He said again, this time he was smiling. Addison swallowed an invisible lump from her throat. This was her fault. If she wasn’t so stubborn enough, this wouldn’t have happened. Now some Asian gangst
All eyes were set to Simon and they waited for his reaction as the phone call ended. His face was so serious that Federico was so sure it was not good news. “What did he say?” Addison was the first one to break the silence. “It’s the Black Scar, right? What does he want from you?” Addison shifted from her seat. For some reason she couldn’t understand, she had a feeling that this was not going to be a good night for all of them. He guts told her so, and it was never wrong before. “Well?” Federico raised an eyebrow at Simon. Simon looked at them one by one before he released a heavy sigh and massaged his temple. That action alone indicated that something was wrong. “Am I in trouble, Simon?” Addie’s chest pounded hard. Are those men coming after them now? Before Simon could even answer them they heard a loud banging on the doer. Not a simple knock, but an urgent banging that’s demanding. “Who the hell is that?” Ryzen got to his feet and went to open the door. “Wait! Don’t open
“What the fuck?” Simon’s voice roared inside the house. After the incident, Addie and Ryzen quickly went home, leaving the scene behind them. Addison was still shaking from what happened. Well, it’s the worst thing that she experienced because she kidnaped a couple of times and she’s not new to this. But this happening in a foreign country makes it more dreadful. Simon was quick to rush Addison and check on her. “Are you hurt? Did those guys?” Simon gripped Addison’s shoulder and examined if she endured any injuries from the incident. Addison just rolled her eyes and shrugged off Simon’s hand. “You know I’m fine because you had someone following us.” She sat on the sofa, crossed her arms in front and raised an eyebrow at Simon. Both Ryzen and Federico turned their heads to Simon who nonchalantly puffed smoke from his mouth. “Damn!” Simon gave in. “Okay, I had them tailed you. What am I supposed to do? Leave you alone to roam the streets of Hong Kong without any protection? Tha
Hong Kong is such a busy city. Addison couldn’t be happier to see people bustle in the middle of the huge city. The crowd makes her excited. The beautiful faces of Asian people. “I can’t wait to try their food!” Addison gushed. She pulled Ryzen going to a street vendor who sells different kinds of street foods. After going from one store to another, Addison was famished. “Ryzen! What are you looking at?” She pulled his attention back to his. She glanced in the direction that Ryzen was looking but she saw nothing there. “What? Did you see a beautiful Chinese girl?” Addison teased him. But Ryzen didn’t bite in her joke. He looked serious and worried at the same time. “Come on, let’s eat! I think their food is so delicious.” While Addison was busy talking to the old woman who was selling the street food, Ryzen squinted his eyes. He was sure that someone was spying on them, his gut feelings wouldn’t lie to him, and they never failed him before. Addie handed him a mouth-watering fo
“Are you sure that you two are going to be alright?” Federico asked Ryzen again. They were gathered in the living room of the house that they rented. It’s a two-story bungalow house. Simon preferred to rent a home than stay in a hotel. Ryzen shrugged his shoulder, ignoring Federico’s worries. Simon tapped Federico’s shoulder, he was standing behind him. “Don’t worry about it, they are going to be fine. Right, Ryzen?” Simon and Federico both turned their heads to look at Ryzen. “Of course!” Ryzen yelled out in panic and followed it with a laugh. “You can trust me on this.” He assured them, confidence was laced in his voice. Federico wasn't sure about this one. He was damn worried, but he knew he can’t do anything about it if that’s what Addison wanted. Addison wanted to explore Hong Kong and she requested that she would go by herself. Federico and Simon said no, and told her that it would be too dangerous for her to go alone, especially in a place that she’s not familiar with.
Addison was overwhelmed that Simon had taken them on a grandiose vacation. Yes, she had been to other countries before but it was all for her work. This will be the first time that she’s going on a vacation, and she has to thank Simon for it. Simon has always been good to her. He may not be that vocal with his feelings but Addie could feel his genuine concern and love for them. She swallowed the invisible lump in her throat. Now that everything is going well for all of them, she just hoped that Simon would not go back to where he started, the Mafia clans. She knew very well that he was an heir to a billion-dollar empire and he had to take his place in the underworld, but Addie didn’t want him to be part of that again. It was too dangerous. “Hey, are you all right?” Addison’s attention was diverted to the man who was beside her. They were on a plane going to Egypt and it will be a long ride. “I was just thinking about Simon.” She admitted. There’s no use denying something that bo
It’s been weeks but the trauma was still fresh from Addison’s mind. The fear was still present inside her heart and she couldn’t help but overthink things. She was drinking her coffee one early morning in the gazebo inside Simon’s estate. She still can’t get over the fact that they were able to make it out of Mancini’s mansion. Thinking about her heart suddenly felt heavy. That huge man who helped her never made it out. He was one of Mancini’s most trusted personnel but he was so kind that he helped her. If only Addison could turn back the clock, he wouldn’t have left him in that state there. Regret and guilt consumed her. “Hey…” Federico came with a cup of hot coffee in his hand. “You wouldn’t mind if I joined you, right?” He looked fresh with his hair combed to the side and had a bright smile plastered on his face. Addison smiled at him. “No, not at all. Come.” She gestured to the empty seat in front of her. Simon was still recovering from his stab wound and Addison had the