31

Raven's POV:

Life can be challenging; it continuously throws you into difficult situations. You have a choice: hide and escape, or stand your ground and fight until you overcome it.

I initially tried the first option, but it didn't work out. Now, it's time to face the challenges head-on, especially the snake that once viewed my past as a weakness.

When life gives you lemons, don't just make lemonade; squeeze the lemon into your enemies' eyes. Fight until your strength becomes your reputation. I adjusted the collar of my blazer, holding my head high, ready for the confrontation with the snake who wouldn't see my past as a vulnerability any longer.

The door opened, and Lisa informed me, "Mr. Rian is here to meet you." I smiled, understanding the power of a calculated smile that can instill fear. "Bring him in," I instructed. Adam Rian entered my office, likely thinking he was on top of the world. Little did he know that the higher he rises, the farther he may fall.

"I knew you would give in," he mocked. The sarcasm was overwhelming, but I couldn't care less. What did he expect? An apology for not succumbing to his will? Please, he lacked the stature to hurt me.

"What do you want, Adam?" I asked, already knowing his insatiable desires. The greedy pig wouldn't be satisfied with anything.

"I told you to help my company," he answered with a self-satisfied smile. I envisioned multiple scenarios, all leading to him facing severe consequences.

"And if I do it, you will stay away from them," I confirmed.

"Yep, never liked them," he shrugged, dismissive of any sentiment.

"I had my lawyer draw up a contract. I'll take complete responsibility for your losses and provide a special team in your company," I stated for emphasis.

"I don't want anything with the company. I just want money. I couldn't save money in my company," Adam nonchalantly declared.

"It's hard to save money when you use it for gambling," I mocked, cutting through his pretense.

"So you keep track of my life," he said with a wicked gleam in his eyes. "After everything that happened, you still think about me. Maybe we could take things to a personal level."

I scoffed, dismissing his ludicrous suggestion. "Have you heard 'keep your enemies closer than your friends'?"

"We were never friends; it was something more," he attempted in a seductive tone.

"Yes, it was something more—the level of hatred I had for you was special," I countered. "Just sign the papers," I insisted, weary of engaging in further conversation.

"You like talking to me, admit it," he grinned.

"Yes, I do have a habit of sometimes being with stupid people to estimate how smart I can be," I retorted. Adam's limited intellect couldn't generate a fitting comeback, so he wisely signed the document on the table.

"I expect my company will do wonderfully. If not, I can sue you," he warned. My eyebrow rose; who is this fool using my money and hard work to issue warnings? Time will eventually teach him a lesson, and I'd love to witness that.

"I didn't learn my job from you, so obviously, it will be the best. Now get out of my office," I said, eyes narrowed.

Adam, acting like the spoiled brat he is, got what he wanted. When he tried to flirt by winking at me and received no reaction, he sighed dramatically and left.

I sank back into my chair, rubbing my forehead with my fingertips. I have a plan, but reality often has its own agenda. Adam might be occasionally smart, and I can only hope he doesn't figure things out.

Brianna's perspective:

I despise my life. You might consider me overly dramatic, but imagine being engaged to a complete imbecile whose intelligence level falls below that of a donkey. Honestly, those poor animals don't deserve to be compared to him.

Can you fathom the emotions that arise when you find out you're engaged to Adam Rian? Someone, please have pity on me. I returned home with the expectation that my grandfather had finally passed away. Never in my wildest dreams did I anticipate this.

I had dreams of opening an art studio. Painting was my passion, and my earliest memories involve my mom guiding my hand and teaching me to paint. However, my dad coerced me into agreeing to his absurd deal. Adam promised to cover my mom's hospital bills, the sole reason I reluctantly agreed to this nonsense.

"Sweetheart, where are you?" The irritating voice chirped. Care to guess who that is? The undisputed drama queen, of course, it's Adam. I brushed off his voice and completed the dishes. I just wanted to grab some dinner and retreat to my room, unwilling to deal with anyone.

As I finished, hands wrapped around my waist, and Adam rested his head on my shoulder, causing me to flinch. The arrogant fool interpreted it as a shudder and smirked. At that moment, I wished nothing more than to thrust a knife down his throat.

"Do you want to do something interesting, love?" He whispered into my ear, and tears welled up in my eyes. What did I do to deserve this?

"Call me 'love' once again, and I will personally ensure you lack a limb or two," I warned. Manipulative men like him typically prey on people's weaknesses and exploit their fears.

Adam's nostrils flared, and he appeared angry enough to strike me. Touch me, and I'll make sure you rot in jail for the rest of your life. Sensing the determination in my gaze, he snapped, "Keep up this act, but once you are married to me, I will show you what your place is."

I longed to punch him, but memories of my mom held me back. I glared at him. Be strong, Brianna; it's the only choice you have. I collapsed on my bed and sobbed, seeking solace in the only thing that could provide it.