The Obsession of the Mafia Boss

At eighteen, to pay for her mothers life-saving surgery, Seraphine Valente sold herselfnot to just anyone, but to a man ten years older, a figure whispered about in the citys underworld.

She later found out he was Don Cassian Moretti, head of the Moretti syndicate, a man both feared and respected in the criminal underworld. Ruthless in business, yet astonishingly gentle with her.

He doted on her with such precision that Sera began to mistake obsession for love.

She once casually mentioned craving the pastries from a small bakery in the southern district. By morning, the bakery had been quietly purchased, producing sweets exclusively for her indulgence.

One night, a fever left her shivering violently. Within hours, Cassian canceled a high-stakes arms deal in Milan, flew back across the continent, and tended to her like a vigilante guardianchanging her damp towels, whispering reassurances as if the world could wait.

On her twentieth birthday, he brought her to a private yacht in the Arctic Circle to watch the aurora borealis. Amid the dancing lights, he kissed her fingertips and said, From now on, Ill spend every year with you.

She believed him.

Until a stranger appeared.

Callista Vero, the woman said coolly, sharp as a blade. Im Cassians former fiance. Seven years ago, he proposed. I chose the world over himstudied abroad, climbed my way into powerbut I know one thing: the Moretti doesnt forget.

She slid a check across the table, thick enough to crush Seras fingers. Im reclaiming him. But before I do, I need you gone. Fifty million should be more than enough to buy a kept womans silence.

Seras throat tightened. She had only ever loved him, but hehad loved others.

Gathering what little courage she had, she said, So many years have passed. Don Cassian probablyforgot about you.

Callistas smile was ice. You dont know the lengths he went for me.

She tapped her phone. Lets make a bet. Ill send a message: Im back in town, but my car broke down. I need him to pick me up.

Youll send a message saying you were in an accident.

Whoever he replies to first, wins. If he replies to me first, you leave with the money. If he replies to you first, Im out.

Seras mind racedfear, doubt, betrayalbut finally, determination hardened in her chest.

They sent their messages. Seconds dragged like hours. Memories of Cassian flickered: the quiet moments when he watched over her in the night, the possessive tenderness when he pressed her close in his penthouse, the way he had kissed her in the snowstorm, claiming her as his.

Then, the phone rang. Callistas smug grin was all the warning Sera needed as Cassians voice cut through the linecold, commanding, almost lethal.

Address.

Seras knuckles whitened, her breath stilled. Callista smirked wider.

Really? All this trouble? Dont you have bigger things to handle, Don Cassian?

Silence. His tone still icy.

No. Address. Callistas triumph was complete as she gave him the location.

Sera stared at her lifeless phone. Color drained from her face.

Did helove you? she whispered.

Callistas smile was a weapon. Yes. Do you want me to remind you how?

She listed themeach memory a dagger.

He took me to see the aurora borealis, said hed spend every year with me.

He bought a bakery because I liked the pastries.

He tolerated my whims, even when they clashed with his empire.

Seras knees threatened to give way. Everything she had believedthe sweet gestures, the midnight rescueshad been an echo of another woman.

Callista slid the check across once more. A bets a bet. Leave.

Ilost, Sera murmured, numb. Her nails had drawn blood from her hands, but she took the money without protest. Ill disappearforever.

Callista didnt linger. Her heels clicked like a verdict as she left.

The rain battered the streets, but Sera moved as though she were untouchable, unmoved. Cars splashed through puddles, soaking her, but she only laughed bitterly.

Back at her villa, soaked and empty, her phone rang. A teacher from abroadsomeone from her past lifeasked, Sera, have you thought about that scholarship? Will you give it up?

Her vision cleared. Rain streaked across the glass, but inside, a new resolve burned.

I wont give it up. Ill go myself.

Hearing that her prized student had finally come to her senses, Maestro Corsettis voice softened slightly, though every word still carried the weight of authority.

Youve finally woken up, Sera. Very good. Your grades impeccable. And this scholarship abroadthis is the only one in the whole academy. How could you even think of giving it up?

Prepare yourself. You leave in fifteen days.

Sera nodded, picking up a pen to circle the departure date on the leather-bound planner.

Fifteen days later it was Don Cassian Morettis birthday.

Sera opened her wardrobe and pulled out a mens suitthree months of sleepless nights spent stitching and modifying it by hand, crafting the perfect birthday gift for the man she had once loved with her entire heart.

She had given up her chance to leave, to carve out her own life far from the Moretti empire, just to spend her days under his shadow.

Now, it all felt meaningless.

Bitterly, she tossed the suit into the trash, stepped into a hot shower, and buried herself under the covers, letting sleep swallow her.

The rain outside seeped into her bones, fever alternating with chills, pressing down like the weight of the city itself. Her body was a battlefield, sweat slicking her skin, mind fogged.

Phone calls went unanswered. Her nightmares trapped her until dawn, when the door burst open.

Miss Valente! Wake upDon Cassian sent me. Youre to come with me, now.

Sera forced her eyes open, met the assistants somber gaze, and changed quickly, shaking off the lingering fog of fever.

The car ride was silent. She clutched her clothes tightly, relying on memory to navigate the glittering labyrinth of the club.

The VIP room was alive with laughter and chatter.

Its been an hour. Why hasnt Sera arrived? Even if she had a minor accident, weve called, sent an assistantwhat is she thinking?

Shes just a plaything. Entertaining for a time, perhaps, but indulging her arrogance like this? Foolish.

After Shishi left, he drowned himself in work and women alike. Sera was convenienta distraction. Four years spoiled. Now Shishi is back. When will this burden leave?

From the elevated throne-like chair, Cassians cold gaze swept the room. His voice, sharp as a blade, cut through the chatter.

Ill manage my people. Theres no rush.

But we worry for youfor Shishi. Seven years. Shes back. Dont use Sera to provoke her. One misstep, and youll lose her again.

Even now, another spoke, you havent deleted the photos. You visit her in America every few days. If she mentions a desire, you find it, procure it, deliver it

Every word was a knife to Seras chest. Her world had been a lieher entire existence in Cassians orbit, merely a distraction, a pawn in his long game.

She turned to leave, but Callista Verowho had just returned from the restroomblocked her path.

With one hand gripping Seras wrist, the other pushing open the VIP room door, Callista smiled at the group.

Whats all the fuss? Even sister Lyra looks too scared to enter. Whats going on here?

Silence. All eyes turned to Cassian.

He acknowledged the newcomer briefly, then gestured for Sera to approach.

Minor accident, huh? Why ignore my calls?

Sera forced herself to steady her voice, hiding the storm within. She stepped forward.

Just a scratch. I treated it and slept. Didnt hear the phone. Everything alright?

Cassians eyes narrowed slightly, noting her quietness, but he didnt press.

Nothing serious. Just wanted you hereto have some fun.

A dagger of realization struck Sera. Was he inviting her for amusementor to provoke Callista?

The woman had paid her off, offered her freedom, and was now poised to reclaim Cassian.

And here he was, using her as a pawn once moremanipulating the game of power and love from his throne.

She swallowed the bitter truth: in their war over his heart, she was nothing but a tool.

Seras thoughts churned, but she said nothing, sitting silently on the edge of the velvet sofa.

Cassian, as always, doted on her.

He draped his tailored coat over her shoulders, handed her a slice of fruit with the precision of a man who had everything under control, and even brushed away a smudge of wine from her lips. His eyes darkened, and he smiled before pressing a brief, possessive kiss to her mouth.

Sera closed her eyesbut the flutter that had once thrilled her was gone.

She glanced sideways and saw Callista staring intently from across the room, calculating and sharp. She knew exactly why Cassian had brought her here tonight. He wanted to provoke Callista, to see her reaction.

All the tenderness abruptly vanished when Callista suddenly slumped onto the sofa, her hand pressed to her stomach.

Callista? Whats wrong? someone exclaimed.

Idont knowmy stomachmaybe something I atejustget me some medicine, Callista mumbled.

Cassians expression shifted instantly. The gentle mask dropped. His voice, laced with cold fury, cut through the room:

Your stomach? You drank wine like that?

Before anyone could stop him, he swept her up in his arms. Every move precise, controlled, a predator protecting his prize. Sera felt herself invisible.

From beginning to end, she was nothingjust furniture in the room, background to their twisted game.

Sera closed her eyes, acknowledging the truth. Her role had ended.

She forced herself to her feet, body burning with fever, whispered, Excuse me, and left the room.

For the next few days, Sera stayed in the quiet of her apartment, recovering. She used the time to clear out the remnants of her past life with Cassianthe gifts, the photos, the little tokens she had kept, even the personal trinkets he had given her.

Except for a few essentials, everything else went to the trash.

Looking around the gradually emptying apartment, memories clawed at her chest.

Cassian holding her on the sofa, the two of them staying up late building intricate models, planting flowers on the balcony She had imagined this life lasting forever, uninterrupted.

Now, all that had dissolved like smoke in the wind.

Just as she was lost in thought, the sound of a car engine echoed in the yard.

She looked up to see Cassian pulling up, Callista beside him. His expression remained calm, unshaken, while Callista smiled, the kind of calculated smile that could cut glass.

They stepped inside, chatting lightly, laughing, as if nothing had happened. Cassians eyes flicked over the apartment.

Why is so much missing? he asked, voice measured.

I cleared out unnecessary things, Sera said softly, lowering her gaze, her tone casualtoo casual.

Cassian didnt question it, turning his attention back to Callista.

Shes been under the weather, and there were issues with the house. Shell be staying for a few days.

Sera nodded. Understood.

He didnt owe her an explanation. She was the kept woman. His game piece.

Callista, smirking, began issuing her own commands.

Lyra, she said, glancing at the housekeeper, Ill take the south-facing bedroom. Move the balcony flowers, Im allergic. These carpetstoo risky for heels. Remove them.

Cassians nod made the orders law, and the staff hurried to obey.

Callistas sideways glance at Sera was filled with unmasked smugness, the kind of confidence only someone who knew she had won could display.

Watching her possessions shifted and the master bedroom reshaped for Callista, Sera felt a bitter pang in her chest.

But relief followed. She was leaving soon. Thisthis world, these peoplewould no longer concern her.

Silently, she lowered her head and retreated upstairs to her room, alone, letting the door click softly behind her.

The next morning, Callistas voice carried clearly through the open window to the second floor.

Why did you keep this painting I did? If you like it, Ill make you a new one tomorrow, alright?

The weathers so nicecome for a walk with me. Doctor says I need fresh air to recover faster.

Im a little hungry, Sera. Can you cook me something? I havent tasted your food in forever.

Cassian rarely replied to her commandsbut he obeyed them all.

For two hours, he sat in the living room like a perfect statue, then accompanied Callista on a half-hour walk, and later cooked an elaborate meal for her personally.

Sera watched from the shadows, and it was clear to hereven from his measured movements and the subtle glint in his eyesthat Cassian enjoyed this.

Perhaps, she realized, this was the life he truly desired: a future molded around Callista, not her.

That evening, Sera went downstairs for a glass of water and returned to find Callista in her room, holding a small keepsakean heirloom Seras father had left her.

Her heart clenched, and she lunged forward instinctively.

Callista, taller and stronger, raised a hand, her gaze arrogant.

Such a pathetic little trinket, yet it seems you care a lot. Must be precious, huh?

Very! Sera replied immediately, voice tight. Its important! Give it back!

Callista smiled, cruel and calculating. Maybe I will but youll have to kneel. Show me some humility, and I might be merciful.

Sera froze, incredulous. Callista I promised Id leave. Cassian likes you. Im not competing with you. Why are you doing this?

Why? Callistas lips curled. Because I dont like you. Even thinking about you monopolizing Cassian for years makes my blood boil. And this this watch is mine now. Ten seconds. Kneel, or its gone forever.

Sera felt the weight of powerlessness crush her chest. She hesitatedbut as Callistas countdown reached one, she realized she had no choice.

With a trembling body, she sank to her knees.

Is this enough? she whispered, voice barely audible.

Callistas smile widenedbut instead of handing the watch back, she flung it down the stairs.

Sera gasped and scrambled after it, but collided with Callista.

The heiress tumbled down the staircase, blood blooming across her dress as she hit the marble.

Cassian, witnessing everything, exploded. His voice, usually calm and lethal, became ice-cold steel.

What the hell happened?!

Callista, tears and blood on her face, twisted the story effortlessly. She she attacked me! I only defended myself and then she pushed me!

Cassians eyes, sharp as knives, bore into Sera. You over a trinket? After all these years, Ive spoiled you too much, Sera?

Seras throat tightened. Grief and humiliation collided, and she tried to speak.

Don Cassian, she

Enough! His voice cracked like a whip, and no word of hers could get through.

He signaled to the bodyguards. Take her to the cold storage. She needs to reflect.

Before Sera could protest, she was restrained and dragged through the halls. The steel door slammed behind her, the sub-zero chill immediately gnawing at her skin.

Huddled in the corner, teeth chattering, Seras body trembled violently. Time slowed. Every second stretched into eternity.

Clutching the broken keepsake, memories of her father and her family flashed in her mindwarmth she could no longer reach.

Through the haze, the door creaked open. A tall figure approached. Her eyes, blurred from the cold, widened instinctively.

Mom she whispered, voice trembling.

Mom I loved the wrong man I I regret it

Hearing her words vaguely, Cassians brow tightened. He stepped closer to Sera, eyes piercing her even in her weakened state.

What did you just say? Regret what?

Sera had no strength to answer. Her body trembled, her vision swimming, and before she could form another word, darkness swallowed her.

She didnt know how long shed been out when she woke. The sterile white of a hospital room greeted her, and the faint beeping of monitors made her head throb.

Cassian stood at her bedside, his presence looming, one hand reaching as if to brush back her hair.

Youre awake. Hows the pain? Are you alright?

Memories of the punishment, of Callistas cruelty, and her tumble down the stairs flashed through her mind. Sera flinched and drew back, avoiding his hand.

My my keepsake the watch. Please, Cassian, give it back to me.

Cassians dark eyes softened slightly as he reached into his coat and handed her the repaired watch. You care about this so much? I had it fixed. You hit someone, I punished youlets call it even. Dont torture yourself over it.

Seeing the keepsake returned, Sera felt a sudden surge of relief, nearly breaking into tears. She swallowed it back and lowered her gaze.

I I didnt mean to demand anything, Don Cassian. Weve only been together in the ways we needed. I cant ask for more than that. Ill know my place from now on, and wont overstep again.

For reasons she couldnt guess, Cassians jaw tightened, his tone shifting sharply.

Are you trying to defy me? Or are you trying to push me away?

Seras voice was steady, calm even, though her heart pounded. Im stating the facts and perhaps soon, I will step away.

Each word made Cassians face darken further, shadows creeping across his expression like storm clouds. He opened his mouth to speak, but at that moment, a message buzzed on his phone.

Cassian, I booked the best table in the city. Join me tonight?

Instantly, his control returned. With a curt glance at Sera, he stepped back, leaving without another word. The door slammed behind him, cutting off the unsaid forever she had intended.

Sera watched him go, a bitter, self-deprecating smile curling her lips.

In the following days, her body slowly regained strength. No one came to see her except for messages from Callistaphotos, videos, updates of Cassians meticulous care.

He opened every wrapper for her, ensured she was comfortable in the passenger seat, took her to family dinners when she mentioned missing home, and even tracked items she casually admired, sending them her way hours later.

Sera realized something painfully clear: the devotion, effort, and patience Cassian now showed Callista werent just indulgencesthey were a lifetime of attention she would never receive.

Even all the doting he had given her beforethe warmth, the gestureshad never reached this level. It was precise, personal, relentless care reserved solely for Callista.

Finally, Sera understood the harsh truth: in the world of the mafia, loyalty and obsession were given with precision, and she had never been the one deserving of his full attention.

On the day Seraphine Valente was discharged from the hospital, several of her former academy roommates came to fetch her, insisting she join a small reunion.

Sera initially refused, but they were persistent. In the end, she followed them quietly.

The gathering was held at a trendy, upscale restaurant popular among the city's elite. The moment she stepped inside, she felt the weight of several unfriendly gazes.

Well, if it isnt the academys busiest girl, one woman sneered. Didnt you leave the academy long ago? How do you suddenly have time for a reunion? Or did your patron finally get tired of you?

Maybe she got dumped, another added with a mocking laugh. Girls who look innocent usually have the messiest private lives. For money, theyd even cling to men old enough to be their fathers.

Tsk we could never be that shameless.

The few women who had always disliked Sera exchanged knowing looks, their voices dripping with sarcasm.

Her roommates immediately bristled.

What nonsense are you saying? Sera moved out because she was living with her boyfriend. Not some old man youre imagining!

Boyfriend? one of them scoffed. Ive seen her get into luxury cars late at night more than once. If thats not being kept, what is? Instead of defending her, maybe you should advise her to stop ruining the academys reputation.

The blatant insult ignited her roommates' anger.

Just as they were about to argue further, one of them suddenly glanced outside the window and froze.

Then she exclaimed excitedly.

Stop gossiping and look outside! Thats Seras boyfriend!

Instantly, everyone in the room turned toward the window.

A black luxury car had just pulled up outside. The moment the tall figure stepped out, several people gasped.

Don Don Cassian Moretti?

No way you're joking. How could someone like her be connected to Don Cassian?

She isnt even worthy of carrying his shoes!

Whether shes worthy or not isnt for you to decide, one roommate snapped. Come on, Sera, lets go say hello.

Encouraged by Cassians appearance, her roommates pulled Sera toward the exit.

But just as they turned, they saw Cassian walk to the passenger side and personally open the door.

A woman stepped out.

Callista Vero.

She leaned lightly toward him as she stepped down, her hand brushing his sleeve naturally. Their posture was intimate familiar like two people who shared a long history.

A girl watching nearby immediately recognized her.

Isnt that Callista Vero? Don Cassians former fiance? Their relationship caused quite a stir years ago. Everyone in the upper circles knew about them.

Oh I see now, another girl muttered. So Don Cassian is still devoted to her. No wonder. How could he be involved with someone like Sera? Some people really like clinging to powerful men to climb higher.

The atmosphere shifted instantly.

Disdain filled the room as everyone looked at Sera.

Outside, Cassian glanced briefly toward the restaurant before leaning toward his assistant and whispering something.

Moments later, the assistant strode inside.

Seeing this, Seras roommates grew nervous, thinking he had come for her.

Instead, he approached the restaurant owner.

Don Cassian and Miss Vero will be dining here. Please clear the room. Don Cassian prefers privacy.

The owner immediately agreed, overjoyed at hosting such a distinguished guest.

Soon, waiters began politely asking customers to leave.

Naturally, Sera and her group were also asked to vacate.

As they stepped outside, Cassian and Callista entered.

Sera lowered her head, unwilling to meet them.

But one of the girls seized the opportunity.

Don Cassian! she called loudly. Were from Belladonna Academy. Do you know someone named Seraphine Valente?

Cassian paused.

His gaze swept across the crowd.

Callista spotted Sera standing quietly in the corner. Her eyes flickered slightly before she spoke first.

Whats this about?

Oh, nothing, the girl said mockingly. Shes been spreading rumors that she has a relationship with Don Cassian. We just wanted to confirm.

Callista loosened her hold on Cassians arm slightly, her gaze fixed on him.

Cassian do you know her?

Seras fingers tightened unconsciously.

Cassian clearly saw her.

He also understood that these people were humiliating her.

But if he acknowledged her now, Callista might misunderstand. Their fragile reconciliation would become complicated.

After a brief pause, he answered calmly.

I dont.

The two simple words struck like a blade.

Laughter erupted among the crowd.

Mockery filled their eyes as they looked at Sera.

She closed her eyes slowly.

Two years ago, her roommates had once caught Cassian kissing her outside the academy gates.

Back then, they had erupted into excited whispers.

Before she could speak, Cassian had pulled her into his arms and said in his low, possessive voice:

My woman.

From that moment on, Sera believed she belonged to him.

But now she finally understood.

He had always been waiting for Callista.

She had only been a distraction a temporary comfort during his loneliness.

No matter how much he had spoiled her, she was still only a passing figure in his life.

Insignificant.

Replaceable.

Someone destined to quietly disappear.

Back at the villa, Sera discovered that the events at the restaurant had already spread through Belladonna Academys private forum.

The posts multiplied by the minute, each more vicious than the last.

"Where did this shameless woman come from? Claiming she's connected to Don Cassian Moretti? She doesn't even know her own worth. She's not even fit to stand behind him."

"Don Cassian belongs to the top tier of the underworld. And the woman he truly loves is Callista Vero. Everyone knows he's been waiting for her for years. How could he possibly be involved with some nobody?"

"I heard she was being kept by an older patron and only made up this lie after being exposed. So vain and shameless. Belladonna Academys reputation is ruined having someone like her."

The endless stream of ridicule and contempt felt like a suffocating fog pressing against Seras chest.

Her roommates tried defending her in the comments, but their voices were quickly drowned beneath the overwhelming tide of mockery. No one listened.

In the end, Sera quietly logged out of every platform.

She told herself over and over again

It would all end soon.

Over the next few days, Sera completed her withdrawal and graduation procedures. Afterward, she visited her mother, who had already recovered from surgery, and carefully explained her plans to study abroad.

She had been busy the entire time and hadn't seen Cassian for several days.

When she finally returned to the villa, she saw him sitting on the sofa, waiting.

His presence alone filled the entire room.

What have you been doing these past few days? Cassian asked, his voice calm but edged with displeasure. I havent seen you at all.

Something came up at the academy, Sera replied softly, lowering her gaze.

At the academy? Cassian frowned slightly. Arent you already graduating? What could be so busy?

Sera didn't want him to learn about her departure beforehand. She answered casually.

Just graduation matters.

Cassians eyes narrowed slightly, sensing something off.

Just as he was about to question her further, Seras phone rang.

She glanced at the caller and immediately stepped aside to answer.

A male voice drifted faintly through the quiet room.

Cassians gaze darkened.

He rose silently and followed.

Outside, a young man handed Sera a document envelope.

These are your visa papers and travel documents. Maestro Corsetti asked me to deliver them.

Seras fingers tightened slightly.

Thank you, she said politely.

After the classmate left, she turned backonly to meet Cassians cold, probing gaze.

Who was that? he asked. What did he want with you?

Sera instinctively hid the documents behind her back, her smile faint.

Just a classmate. He helped deliver some graduation paperwork.

Cassians expression hardened further.

What classmate would personally deliver documents to your residence? Does he like you?

Sera blinked, slightly startled by the question.

He was just helping on the way. We're ordinary classmates. I don't know who he likes, but it definitely isn't me.

Cassian stared at her for a long moment, his tone turning icy.

No matter what your relationship is, youre not allowed to associate with him again.

Seras brows knit slightly.

Don Cassian I have the freedom to make friends

Before she could finish, he cut her off coldly.

From the moment you agreed to stay by my side, you gave up that freedom.

His gaze was sharp, possessive, absolute.

I dont tolerate impropriety. If you continue seeing this kind of person you dont need to remain here.

The words fell like a verdict.

Before Sera could respond, footsteps sounded from upstairs.

Callista Vero descended, dressed elegantly, her smile gentle as she slipped her arm through Cassians.

Cassian, Im ready.

Cassian nodded and walked out with her.

Moments later, the sleek black sports car roared to life and disappeared down the driveway.

Sera stood quietly in the empty villa.

She slowly closed her eyes.

This time she didnt feel pain.

Only relief.

Soon, she would no longer stay by his side.

Soon, she would finally be free.

Their four-year agreement

Was about to end.

On Don Cassian Morettis birthday, Sera woke unusually early.

She opened the tall glass window to let in the cool morning air. Below, in the garden, Cassian was seated with several of his trusted associates, casually sipping coffee.

Their voices drifted upward.

Cassian, I heard Callista personally planned your birthday tonight, one of them teased. Shes been sticking close to you these days. If she asks to get back together at the party are you saying yes?

Do you even need to ask? another laughed.

Cassian leaned back in his chair, calm and composed, his expression unreadable.

Well see.

Tsk look at that confidence. Seems like you already know shes going to confess tonight.

Then another voice spoke, careless and mocking.

But if you reconcile with Callista what about Sera? Why not hand her over to me? Shes quite pretty. Let me keep her for a few daysIll take good care of her.

Laughter followed.

Since youre offering, I want a share too. Ive had my eye on her for a long time. Just imagining her calling me Don in bed damn.

The crude laughter sent a chill down Seras spine.

Her fingers tightened against the windowsill as she instinctively looked toward Cassian.

His lips curved slightly, but there was no warmth in his eyes.

After all these years with me, you still dont understand the rules? he said calmly. What I set my sights onwhether I want it or notI wont allow anyone else to touch.

His tone sharpened slightly.

Afterwards, Ill arrange a comfortable position for her in the Moretti offices. Anyone who dares to lay a finger on her will answer to me.

His associates immediately quieted, slightly alarmed.

Relax, we were just joking. Shes been with you for four years and likes you that much. Even if you let her sit quietly in the office, shed probably be satisfied.

But what if Callista cant tolerate her after you reconcile? What if she asks you to send Sera away? Youve kept her for four years wont you regret it?

Cassian lifted his coffee, taking a slow sip.

I kept her to pass the time, he said indifferently. Whats there to regret?

The calm cruelty in his voice extinguished the last flicker of pain in Seras chest.

She quietly stepped away from the window.

After washing up, she stepped into the hallwayand ran into Callista.

The moment their eyes met, impatience flickered across Callistas face.

You took my money, she said coolly. When are you leaving? My patience is limited.

Sera glanced at her phone. A message from Maestro Corsetti confirmed her departure schedule.

Dont worry, Sera replied calmly. After today Ill disappear completely. You wont see me again.

What do you mean disappear?

Cassians voice came from behind them.

Both women turned.

Callistas expression shifted instantly. She stepped toward him, smiling naturally.

Nothing. Just chatting. Its a long drive to the villa for your birthday party. Shouldnt we leave soon?

Cassian checked his watch.

Its time.

He picked up his keys. Callista slipped into her heels.

Sera remained still.

Cassian frowned slightly.

What are you standing there for? Arent you changing for the banquet?

Sera shook her head.

You two go ahead. Dont wait for me.

Cassians gaze darkened.

If you miss the banquet, dont come crying to me.

I wont.

Her certainty stirred a strange unease in his chest.

Before he could question her further, Callista tugged gently at his arm.

Lets go. Its impolite to keep everyone waiting. I prepared a surprise for you tonight.

Cassian glanced at Sera one last time, then left with Callista.

Once the villa fell silent, Sera quietly packed her suitcase.

She paused, looking around the place she had lived in for four years.

The piano Cassian bought for her.

The scented candles she loved.

The cat he once allowed to sleep beside her.

She had mistaken all of it for love.

Now she understood

Every bit of tenderness had never truly belonged to her.

He already had someone he loved.

And she was finally leaving.

Without hesitation, she dragged her suitcase outside and headed straight to the airport.

Before takeoff, the flight attendant reminded passengers to switch off their phones.

Sera hesitated.

Then she opened Cassians contact and typed her final message.

Don Cassian, I wont be attending your birthday party today. Have a wonderful evening. Thank you for taking care of me all these years. Im planning to have an affair. Goodbye forever.

She meant to write go abroad, but didnt notice the typo.

She turned off her phone and looked out the window.

The sky stretched wide and clear.

Even without him

Every day ahead would still be bright.