Ayra’s POV

I almost cried here at the door of my husband's room because of the disgusting thing he's doing inside. He's having sex with another woman while I'm here, almost drowning in tears.

"Shh. I'm cumming. Don't shout," I heard him say inside. Really? Isn't this woman ashamed? She knows he's married! And my husband, he's so foolish too!

I leaned against the wall, crying. Damn it, I shouldn't be like this. I shouldn't care, but somehow I still fell for him, even though this is how it is every day.

I'm also a fool. We're married, but it's just on paper. Our university doesn't even know we're married because we never paid attention. I mean, it's just him.

Sometimes, I feel like giving up on him because of the hurtful words he says and the physical pain he inflicts on me. When others hurt me, I fight back, but with this damn man, I don't know why I'm like this.

Yes, I love him, but every day, I pray for these feelings to disappear. I really want to get out of this situation.

"Bryxwell, babe..."

Another ****.

Then sex, I don't care what I see. I don't care what I hear.

But my heart cares. If you're both acting like fools because of me, what does that make me?

"Oh, my love Cassy."

I laughed a little. They say to listen to your parents because they always want what's best for you, but is this it? Is this really the decision my parents wanted for me? Maybe there's another option.

"You've been noisy for a while! Your voice is irritating!" he said.

I just stood up as the door suddenly opened. I wiped away my tears and bravely faced him.

"What are you doing here?" he asked with a frown.

I faked a smile. "Listening to music."

Then I left him. I secretly rolled my eyes.

To be continued...

Ayra's POV

I went downstairs and headed straight to the kitchen to have breakfast before going to school. I put some food on my plate and sat down. I was about to eat when I saw my husband and the woman he was with coming down the stairs.

I stood up to approach them. "What's your name, miss?" I asked the woman, forcing a smile.

"I'm Cassy," she smiled back at me.

Her action annoyed me. How could she genuinely smile in front of me? It's not like she didn't know that she was with my husband earlier. Stupid, is she not aware that he's married to me? Idiot.

"Ah," I nodded and glanced at my husband. "Why don't you two have breakfast since it's already morning?"

"Sorry, I need to go home," Cassy replied.

Wow? She's still so calm even though she knows she's a ****.

"Oh?" I pretended to be surprised. "Anyway, I think you need some rest. It must be tiring," I said firmly.

I quickly turned away and rolled my eyes at the act of pretending.

I continued eating, and later, I saw my husband getting his food. He must have just dropped off his fourth mistress outside the house. I ignored him and focused on my food.

"Are you going to school?" he asked.

I didn't answer him.

I'm wearing my school uniform. Is he blind?

"Are you deaf? I'm asking if you're going to school," he said angrily, but I still ignored him. In his anger, he slammed the table. "Damn it, Ayra!"

I faced him with a frown. I took a sip of water before standing up to confront him.

"Why do you keep asking?" I raised my right eyebrow because I was really getting angry with him.

"I'm just asking, woman."

Asking? Seriously?

"Don't you see this uniform I'm wearing? I have it on, right? Stupid," I retorted.

He furrowed his brows and whispered something before turning away. "Who do you think you are, ****."

I laughed a little. "Are you, Bryxwell, begging me to shut up? Amazing."

"I'm not begging. Just be quiet."

"'Please means nothing, right? Okay, if that's what you want."

I rolled my eyes before turning away. What do I care if he's getting angry? It's not my fault.

"Your face is so thick," he whispered.

When he talks or argues with me, he sounds like a woman because he can't really argue properly. He really wants to hurt me and uses hurtful words.

"Your face is thicker, isn't it obvious?" I looked at him from head to toe, leaving him with disdainful emotions. "Don't you have any taste to not choose a proper woman—" I was about to say more when I quickly moved away from him. "Calm down."

"You're flirting with others, too!" I saw his jaw clench in anger. His eyes were piercing.

Oh, Bryxwell Falcon.

"Don't ******* interfere with my life."

"Let's divorce," he invited me again. "If we find it difficult to get a lawyer, just leave my house. Understood?"

I stared in the other direction for a few minutes before facing him and replying, "Go to hell."

I gave up on that argument. I left the kitchen to clear my mind.

"Red hair!"

Only the ends of my hair were red. I let out a sigh upon hearing his shout and grabbed my bag. We're in college. The university has dorms, but our parents didn't allow us to stay there. That's another thing that annoys me.

The dorms are in the middle of the campus, with the buildings on the sides. Boys and girls are separated. The university is owned by Falcon's parents.

I quickly parked the car in the parking lot.

"Hi, guard," I greeted without emotion.

The guards here know that I'm the wife of the university owner, so I show some respect by greeting them. The guard had no complaints about me.

"Good morning, ma'am."

"Nothing good in the morning."

I walked quickly towards my friends' dorm, Jean and Nicol. After finding it, I knocked on their door. The door opened and Jean came out.

"Where's Nicol?" she asked. I always look for Nicol whenever I come here. Before I could answer, she shouted, "Nicol!"

"What?" the woman inside replied.

"Ayra is here! Hurry up!"

I heard footsteps approaching us. After a few seconds, Nicol peeked through the door with a wide smile. Her gaze was fixated on me. I averted my gaze and subtly rolled my eyes.

Childish.

"Let's go?" I invited them. I had a bored expression.

"We're late! Hurry up!" Jean shouted.

I frowned and left them. They insisted on following me wherever I went. When we arrived at the cafeteria, I ordered some food and sat at an empty seat. I was quietly eating when someone sat in front of me.

Ace.

"Lonely?" he asked as an opening question.

"Shut up, the ****," was my immediate irritated response.

I didn't want to see him. I didn't like his presence.

"So how's your husband?" he asked. I didn't answer him. He laughed a little. "How's Bryxwell Falcon as your husband, Ayra?"

"Get lost."

"You don't know how to smile. Didn't they teach you that back in nursery school?"

I glared at him. "You're just Bryxwell's friend. Go hang out with your friends since you're all the same."

"That **** boy?" he referred to Falcon.

I tightened my grip on the spoon, annoyed at what he was saying. Doesn't he understand? I'm pushing him away, but he doesn't want to leave. What kind of brain does he have that I need to keep saying this over and over again? He's so annoying! It makes my head heat up. Annoying!

"You can't accept him like that. He doesn't love you, but you love him so much? No one can bear that, Ayra. You're a smart person. Don't be blinded by that ******* love."

"If you don't want to leave, I'll leave instead."

I left him there. I had to avoid his stubbornness. I walked down the hallway, and someone pulled me into a room. The grip on my wrist was painful.

"What is it, Bryx?" I asked irritatedly.

What is he doing? Can't he see that we're at school? There might even be CCTV cameras!

"Don't flirt," he said and tightened his grip on my arm. I don't understand what he means.

"Why? Are you the only one who can flirt?" I asked without emotion, keeping up with his intense stare.

"Stay away from my friend."

I laughed a little. "Tell your friend and I'll find someone else."

"You're really trying me, Ayra, huh."

"It's been a long time."

"Remember, we're just married on paper, not in church."

He really wants to say that to my face. Doesn't he get tired of saying that? Perhaps, he knows how to hurt me and understands its impact on me.

"I know," I replied and broke free from his grasp.

I was about to leave when he grabbed me again and leaned against the wall.

What does he want now?!

"Bryx!" I threatened him.

"You smell good," he remarked, seeming pleased.

"For ****'s sake, I'm not your mistress!" I pushed him away. "Go away!"

I stormed out of the room, in a hurry. I was so annoyed that he treated me that way. If only I could avoid that man completely, I'd gladly do it. I'm so furious with him!

I entered the classroom, and the professor hadn't arrived yet, so I sat down.

"Are you alright?" Nicol asked, her eyes showing concern.

"What do you think?" Jean rolled her eyes at Nicol again. She was annoyed with Nicol's question. They're always like that.

"Tsk," I replied.

Thanks to the fact that our professor finally arrived.

We listened to the lecture until the end. The only thing on my mind during the lecture was what happened earlier. It's so annoying.

"Class dismissed," our professor said and put away her things, then left.

"I'm hungry," Jean grumbled, holding her stomach.

"Let's go eat?" Nicol invited, so I followed them to the cafeteria.

We hadn't gone far when Jean spoke again. "Hey, your husband is at it again! Another woman! Amazing, huh! I hope he doesn't get tired of choosing!"

I looked at her, raising my right eyebrow. I'll admit that his girl was beautiful and sexy. But do I care? I'm better than her. Obviously.

"Leave him be," I replied coldly.

"You still don't want to break up with him," Nicol said, obviously irritated by my husband's infidelity. "When you leave him, you'll be free to find someone else. You're not meant for each other. Wake up, Ayra!"

I didn't respond. We headed straight to the cafeteria.

Ace's POV

We were all in the dorm room, including Bryxwell, Ross, and Dave. We weren't discussing anything serious, just random things—boy's talk, as they call it.

"Where's your newest mistress, Bryx?" Dave playfully asked, teasing Bryxwell as he always does. Here we go again with the topic of our friend's women.

He was immediately silenced by another. "Shut up, Dave!"

"You can afford so many women, huh," Dave said again, now sitting on the sofa.

"Isn't Ayra getting angry? HAHAHAHA!" Ross asked.

"She's Bryx's wife, so of course she's hurt or annoyed," I replied to their conversation.

Honestly, I'm the only one thinking logically here.

"You mean even Bryxwell gets hurt?" Ross inquired.

"Yes," I directly replied. "It's obvious that Bryxwell loves Ayra," I said, being honest.

I looked at Bryxwell, who showed no signs of protest. He was busy with his cellphone.

"Ayra is beautiful and sexy. Add to that her red hair. Argh! If I were Ayra's husband, I wouldn't treat her that way," Ross said, imagining. Gross.

"Yeah," I agreed. "If it were me, I'd court her," I added.

"Damn it," Bryxwell muttered softly while still focused on his cellphone. I know he's already jealous.

"Who knows, bro? She might find someone else and leave you. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Dave teased again.

Annoyed, Bryxwell finally looked at us and said, "Then find another."

Really?

To be continued...

Ayra’s POV

Our class ended, so it's time to go home. Nicol, Jean, and I are walking together in the hallway. We're not talking about anything, just walking silently until I asked.

"Where's Kim, by the way?"

Kim is one of our friends. She's a cheerful person, so when the three of us are feeling down, we look for her. She's talkative, always telling stories. We need her when we're feeling low.

"Let's go, let's find her," Jean gently suggested.

"She's here," Nicol pointed to Kim coming towards us.

Why is she showing up just now?

"Oh, why did you skip class?" I asked her with one raised eyebrow.

"I woke up late," she replied, seeming absent-minded.

"You're already in the dorm, and you're still late," Jean countered.

It seems like she prefers to point out but I don't understand.

"You're out of breath, Kim. What happened?" Nicol commented on Kim's condition.

They notice things with their serious faces. I wonder what's on their minds.

"You know, I cleaned the dorm," she replied without enthusiasm.

It's like she doesn't want to see us or she's just not in the mood. I want to ask, but I didn't get the chance.

"You're hardworking," was my unenthusiastic response.

I walked ahead. I lost my appetite. My friend's mood is contagious.

"I'll go ahead, I still have something to do," she said without waiting for us to say anything. She left immediately.

I guess that's how it is when you're just waking up. Maybe she's avoiding us for no reason. I want to know what's on her mind.

Again, it's just the three of us together.

"Let's go to the mall first!" Nicol exclaimed with excitement in her voice.

Since we're not allowed to leave the dorm, they're excited whenever they're with me on weekends.

"We can't go out. What are you thinking?" the other one objected.

"Ayra is with us, girl," she rolled her eyes and looked at me. "Right, Ayra?"

"Tsk," I sighed and changed our topic. "I'm just wondering, why did Kim come with us only once?"

"Forget about it! Let's just have fun!"

I didn't do anything until we reached the school gate. When my friends drag me, I have no escape. Sigh.

I told the guard that my two friends are with me. Luckily, he didn't ask any more questions and let us out. We got in the car. Jean in the backseat, and Nicol in the passenger seat. I started the car and drove to the nearby mall.

"We're here, get off."

They got off, and we entered the mall. There were only a few people, so it wasn't too crowded even though the mall is big. Crowds are inevitable sometimes when there are many people.

"You know what, Ayra? Just color your hair! Try a different hair color! Duh!" Nicol interfered with my hair. Yes, she's meddling.

"I agree!" Jean shouted. "Let's just go to the salon! Color! Color! Polish! Polish!"

Argh! These two are annoying!

"You just colored your hair because of Bryx, didn't you?" one of them indirectly asked. "Gosh, Ayra! Wake up! Stop making a cheater your inspiration in life!"

"Hays," I'm annoyed. "Just shut up, okay? People have been staring at us since earlier."

They looked around and got embarrassed when they saw many eyes on us. I rolled my eyes. We entered the restaurant, and luckily there was a vacant table, so we sat down. I stayed silent.

"Menu, please," Nicol asked, and the staff quickly brought one to her. "What do you want to eat, girls?"

"Anything," I replied.

"That's Ace, isn't it?"

Nicol's eyes are really sharp. She's looking at the menu, but she still noticed Ace. She's something.

"You must have eyes at the back of your head, Nicol," Jean teased, and she got an eye roll in return.

I looked to where she was pointing, and yes, it's Ace. He's with a girl, probably his girlfriend. But why is he here? Did he leave the school? How?

A little while later, they chose their food and ordered quickly. It arrived promptly, so we started eating.

I couldn't help but think. I've been thinking about this for a while now. I'm really curious about Bryx's mysterious affair. It's secretive.

"Girl!" Nicol called me. "You're deep in thought. Are you checking out your husband's abs?"

A few seconds passed before I answered. "No, but I'm thinking about Bryx. He has a mistress, and whenever I see them together, he covers her face."

They frowned in confusion. They are also wondering.

"Divorce your husband first!" Nicol shouted.

Nicol tapped the spoon against the glass as if cheering me on, but I could sense the annoyance in her voice.

"Such a stubborn girl!" Jean

said.

Who else always contradicts Nicol?

Whenever Bryxwell is the topic of our conversation, their advice is always conflicting. Their opinions create chaos, but in the end, I know I should be the one to decide for myself.

"Let's just eat. What time is it?" I changed the topic. I didn't want a long conversation about my husband.

"It's already eight o'clock, girl!"

After finishing our meal, we decided to go back to the university. They left their dorm, and they can't stay at my house.

"Well, your birthday is coming up," Nicol reminded me.

She still remembers my birthday. It hasn't crossed my mind, though.

"No need to celebrate, nothing will change," I answered coldly while keeping my eyes on the road.

"Celebrate for yourself," she said. "How about with your parents?"

"I don't want to show them."

"What a waste," Jean interjected. "Your anniversary is also approaching. Any plans?"

"Let's drop the topic about that guy," I answered simply.

It's not even on my mind, but they still remember. Are they the ones in the relationship with Bryxwell? How persistent.

"Do you really love him?" Nicol asked, confused with my responses. She always has questions.

"Of course," I confidently replied. "My birthday and our anniversary aren't important to me, okay?"

It's evident that I don't want to discuss that matter, so they didn't bring it up again.

"I feel like a broken record telling you to divorce him," Nicol softly said, looking out the window.

"It's easy to say but hard to do," I responded. "He already said that, and I can't do it."

I recalled what he said earlier and felt a tear rolling down my cheeks. Why are they asking? Remembering hurts. Am I being too emotional? Come on, Ayra, stop that.

We remained silent until we reached the university. We got off the car. I escorted them to the gate, and the guard greeted me.

"There's nothing good in the evening," I said. "Goodnight!" I bid my friends farewell.

"Bye!" they said.

Once they were out of sight, I returned to the parking lot, but before getting into my car, I saw Ace and Dave still outside, despite the late hour.

"Hi, Ayra. Good evening," Dave greeted me with a warm smile. He seems genuinely happy to see me now.

"It's already late," Ace said coolly.

"Shouldn't I be the one asking that?"

"I know, do I look like I can't see the darkness?" I whispered, unheard by them.

"Bryx?" Dave asked.

I fake-laughed at his question. I answered before getting into the car. "You should ask his mistress, not me."

"Ayra, do you really know what a breakup is?" He laughed loudly at his question.

"Is that supposed to be funny?" I asked irritably.

Nicol is gone, and now he's been replaced.

"Advance happy birthday."

Instead of saying thanks, I started the car. I didn't respond to that. I was busy driving when my cellphone rang.

Bryxwell is the caller.

He called multiple times, but I ignored him until he got tired. It's his problem if he's disturbed. I continued driving.

When I got home, our guard opened the gate. I went straight to the garage. I got out of the car and was supposed to go inside, but I saw Bryx with a woman.

I couldn't see the woman's face because she had her back turned to me. She's the mysterious mistress. My chest tightened as I watched them. Tears accompanied me as my chest constricted. Who is she?

I wiped away my tears and tried to be strong to face them. I walked over to them, and Bryx spotted me quickly. His eyes widened, and he hid his mistress. He didn't want to show the face of that woman. Should I not interfere?

"What are you doing here?" he asked stupidly.

He placed the woman behind him. He didn't want to show the face of that ******* woman.

I just glanced at his mistress as she left the house. Her body looked familiar. Where have I seen her before? I wanted to pull her, but my body wouldn't move.

I faced Bryx and grinned. "What am I doing here? Where should I go? To my man?"

"It's late."

"Who is that woman?" My voice tingled. "Is that woman itchy or good in bed?"

"Your mouth!" he yelled at me angrily.

So he's defending that woman? How funny. I think that woman is very lucky.

"Defending her?" I sarcastically asked, finding it hard to believe.

"Tsk."

"Maybe your mistress is beautiful. Can I meet her?"

"I don't care about this, you know? Don't drag it out."

"When did you ever care about this?"

A sarcastic question.

It took a few seconds before he spoke again.

"Are you jealous?"

"Of course. Are you dumb?"

He laughed. "We don't love each other, so you can find others, too. Flirt everywhere. Kiss anyone."

"I've wanted to do that for a long time, Falcon. Remember Falcon, when I can't take it anymore, I won't hesitate to break up with you," I stopped and stared into his eyes. "Isn't that what you want? Think of things that will hurt me so that I give up. Your wish will come true."

"Oh?" he replied. "Thanks for the idea."

I walked inside the house while speaking. "I will be the first to sign the annulment paper."

He didn't respond to what I said. He suddenly asked, "Why now?"

"What does it matter to you, huh? We don't care about each other anymore. Stop pretending," I rolled my eyes at him, pretending like he cares.

I noticed he was trying to hold back his anger. "No one has cooked yet! I'm hungry. That's your job!"

I faced him. "Aren't you satisfied yet after eating your mistress? Or the justification you tasted—"

I didn't finish what I was about to say when he suddenly slapped me. I winced as my head tilted to the side. He slapped me because of that woman? Who is that woman?

"Is that how vulgar your mouth can be?!"

That woman must be important to him! He hurt me!

I straightened up in front of him. "Why? Is it a big deal? You've been doing that for a long time, Falcon, so don't act all innocent. Your room is the evidence."

"Haha, woman," he looked me up and down. "I can't learn to love you because of your behavior. No one wants your personality. Dave is right. It's just a smile, but you're difficult to handle. Are you even human?"

Oh, really?

I was bored with him. "I don't like everyone interfering with my behavior. And me? I don't know how to smile? Ever since I entered this hell, I don't like this house! I don't like this color! I don't like this atmosphere! I don't like my situation! I don't like everyone! Is it based on a smile?! On emotion?! Why? Is it amusing when someone hurts you?! Now, tell me, Falcon?! Are you messing with me again?!"

He paused but quickly regained his composure. "Is that how you see it? Who would want to marry on paper, isn't it you?"

"Shameless of you. I loved you and became foolish for you, but I didn't become desperate. Is that how highly you think of yourself?" I asked sternly, causing him to be taken aback. "It's almost over, Bryx. It's almost over."

I went to the kitchen.

Bryxwell's POV

I was left speechless by what she said. Why am I even engaging with her? Yes, I slapped her. Her tongue is sharp. She doesn't know that woman well to judge her. Ayra goes overboard with her behavior.

"I'll just sleep in the dorm to avoid this."

She's really annoying, huh?

"Who said?" I immediately questioned.

"I am."

"Then try to sleep there," I challenged. "We were the owner then. I'll find a way so that they won't accept you there."

She frowned at me. "Still cares about me."

"Assume then."

"You care about me because I'm a woman."

"Probably."

She grinned. "Oh, about Ace?"

Why does she always mention Ace's name? Is she trying to play with me now? Is she trying to annoy me even more? What's her game?

"We are talking seriously, and then you mention someone else who is still my friend."

"Why, Falcon? Is there a problem there?"

She's really getting on my nerves now. I don't want her mentioning my friends' names. She seems to be enjoying my reactions.

"You're arrogant," I replied, losing patience.

She faced me while taking a sip of water. "Why are you reacting like that? Is there a problem?"

"No—"

Her phone suddenly rang. I got more annoyed when I saw that it was Ace calling. What's the reason for him to call my wife?

I took her phone and turned it off. Annoyed, I faced her again. She knows Ace's number. She even gave it to him. What is she up to?

"Why did you hang up?" anger was evident in her voice.

"Why? We were talking. He''s rude."

She took her phone back. "He's your friend, Falcon."

"Are you stupid? You were the one he called, right?"

Her forehead furrowed even more. She sighed and lazily looked at me.

"I'm going to sleep, Falcon. If you're hungry, just look in the kitchen. Let's continue our argument tomorrow."

"I'm not done yet," I said annoyed.

Is that how it's going to be? It's over? She didn't even answer my call earlier.

"What is it?"

"Why aren't you answering my calls?"

"Damn, aren't you done yet?" she said, losing her patience too. "Because I don't want to. The answer is simple, but it doesn't seem to register in your head that it's not just women who occupy my thoughts."

A tear involuntarily escaped my eyes as I looked at her. "Argh!" I punched the wall out of frustration. In our argument, I feel like I'm losing now. "I'm mad at you because we broke up with my ex-girlfriend because of that ******* wedding! You didn't do anything! **** it!"

Stupid, Bryxwell! Think!

Ayra's POV

I entered my room, crying silently. My tears are easily shed. It's a good thing I can still gather the courage when facing him. Thankfully, my tears didn't fall while we were arguing earlier.

I closed the door and stood against it. I allowed myself to feel what I truly feel. I'm always the loser whenever he's my opponent. Why is he like this?!

"Why..." I whispered softly. I clenched my fists before screaming, "Why didn't you fight for me during that wedding, Ace?! Why?!" My tears kept flowing. I wanted to disappear. I'm getting tired of this. I let my true feelings out, sitting on the floor without even realizing it.

Bryxwell's POV

"Argh!" I shouted. I threw away what I was holding.

My life is a mess because of you.

"**** that marriage..."

**** it!

"I love you, but my anger towards you comes first..."

Continue...

Ayra’s POV

I woke up because of the sunlight from my window. I still have to go to school. I got up and took a shower.

When I got downstairs, it was very quiet. Obviously, no one's around. That useless guy must still be sleeping upstairs.

I went to the kitchen and thought of something to cook. I saw a sticky note on the refrigerator, so I took it.

Ayra,

I went to school early. I already cooked.

I crumpled the sticky note and threw it away. I looked at the table. Indeed, he cooked, so I had my meal. After that, I took care of myself, and when I was done, I grabbed my bag and got in the car. I started it and stopped at the gate.

"Guard, what does the woman with Falcon look like last night?"

I know the guard knows this.

"Ah, ma'am," he stopped, recalling the woman's face. "She's fair-skinned, shoulder-length black hair and very dark."

"Does she have a mole on the side of her lips?"

"Yes, she does."

I was stunned for a moment because of his answer. Is he serious? Based on his description, it matches Kim.

I asked him again. "Does she often stay here?"

"Only last night. Whenever I see sir with a woman, it's always a different face. There's one woman he's always with."

Last night? What was Kim doing here? And who is Falcon's constant companion? Could it be Cassy?

"What does the constant companion look like?" I asked seriously.

He hesitated. "I'm sorry, ma'am. Sir never shows her face. But I'm sure you've seen her before. I'm also confused whether she still has the mole on her lips or not. They have the same body type."

I took a deep breath. "Guard, the next time you see that woman, just try to catch a glimpse of her face, even just a brief look."

"I will, ma'am."

I thanked him and started my car. While driving, I couldn't get all the information from the guard out of my mind.

What is Kim doing there? What's her purpose? Is the guard mistaken in describing Falcon's mistress? There are so many women, but Kim is the one with fair skin, shoulder-length hair, and a mole on the side of her lips.

Damn, why am I feeling so nervous? If she wasn't my husband's mysterious mistress, then who is she?

The guard said she was here last night. Did Kim and Bryx kiss? What the ****?! But I don't want to jump to conclusions, especially when I have no certainty. She's my friend, and she's not even close to Falcon.

When I arrived at the university, I parked my car.

"Bad morning, Guard," I informed the guard.

He smiled, seemingly used to my mood. "Bad morning, ma'am."

I walked down the hallway towards Nicol's dorm. Instead of thinking about anything, I just knocked on my friend's door.

As always, Jean opened it.

"Hey, you're up early!" she said. "Did you bring a grumpy face as a gift for me?"

I rolled my eyes at her. "Come on. Where's Nicol?"

She laughed. Amused by my annoyance. "Nicol? She went to the library early because she had an assignment she didn't do well. She can't give the correct answer."

"Why don't we have an assignment?" I wondered.

"I think our strict professor gave it to her as punishment. Hahaha! Don't you like that? No assignment for us?"

I just nodded at her. "Let's visit Kim."

She grabbed her bag, and we walked to the second floor where Kim's dorm was. I want to observe her. When we arrived, Jean knocked, and Kim came up to us looking groggy. She was still rubbing her eyes, obviously just waking up.

"What's this?" she asked with her eyes half-closed.

"Are you a princess? Don't you plan to study?" Jean joked.

"Clown," she laughed a little. "Is there a problem?"

"We're just checking up on you, is that a problem?" I replied emotionlessly. "Get ready. We'll leave first. Seems like you just woke up."

I started walking ahead.

"Yeah, sure! Thanks for waking me up!" she shouted, and I heard the door close loudly behind her.

She couldn't be the one. She seems too innocent. She wouldn't do that to me. I accused my friend when I have a problem, I only rely on them.

"Did you eat?" I faced my companion.

"Not yet, you came early," she answered.

I smiled at her remark.

We went to the cafeteria.

Jean placed her order, so I just waited for her. She quickly got her food, and we started eating. While eating, I felt like someone poured water on me.

I didn't react immediately because I had no idea who did it. They're in college but still act like high school students.

I stood up and faced the woman with a cold reaction. She raised her eyebrows at me, clearly craving for my attention. Where did she find the nerve to do this to me?

"Enjoying the view, guys?" she asked the crowd, then she turned to me again. "Enjoying it, right?" I didn't answer her. I kept staring into her eyes. "Are you deaf?!" Again, I didn't reply. "Maybe you're wondering why I'm disrespecting you like this. Are you really studying? Do you have any dignity in yourself? You know what 'desperate' means, right? You know, but why do you still act this way? Come on, don't you plan to change yourself?"

Damn them. They keep using the word ‘desperate.’ Who is this woman? I don't even know her, but she acts like she has the right to talk to me this way. Where does she get the audacity? If she wants to behave like this and cause a scene, fine. I won't be stingy in giving her what she wants.

"Now it's your turn to speak," I ordered.

I held the woman's neck as she struggled to breathe. Her face turned red, and she couldn't speak properly. Some students stepped back due to what I did.

"Ayra, stop it!" Jean yelled at me, trying to pull the woman away from me.

I saw everyone in the cafeteria looking at us in disbelief.

"Get your hands off me," she managed to say.

"What's happening here?" a voice interrupted us.

I loosened my grip on the woman. The students crowded around, and I realized it was Falcon's voice. He and his friends were walking toward us. He was looking seriously at me, waiting for an answer.

"Is this your mistress, Mr. Falcon?" I asked and released the woman to Falcon.

She was almost choking, trying to catch her breath.

"You're getting into trouble again? Aren't you too old for that? Where are you taking your education?" Falcon said coldly.

"Trying to be self-righteous?" I retorted.

I could feel Ace's mocking gaze on me, and I wanted to ask him what his problem was. Laugh all you want, Ace.

"Ayra," Falcon caught my attention again as my focus shifted to Ace.

He gestured for me to face him. "I thought you left. I didn't realize you were still in front of me."

"We can talk about it in private so you won't feel embarrassed here."

I raised an eyebrow at his suggestion and scanned the other students, who were all watching us. It seemed like this guy standing in front of me was the subject of their attention.

"Such a scandal," I remarked. "You just arrived, right? You know what? You're the funnier one between us. You're the more embarrassed one because you're insisting that we have something when everyone here knows the whole story. You keep making baseless accusations."

He was taken aback by my words, and his friends were about to intervene, but he stopped them. They seemed to know Bryxwell Falcon well, huh? They must've known that he didn't like it when he was angry.

"Stay out of it. This is between me and my wife," he told them.

Oh?

What crossed this guy's mind to tell everyone that I'm his wife when he dislikes the idea himself? He doesn't want people to know. I don't either. I don't want them to find out that I married this kind of man standing right in front of me.

"Oh my god, are they married?!"

"Oh, they don't look like they get along! They're actually married!"

"Why are they married?!"

"Maybe Bryxwell is still joking around!"

"Can't you ask the 'are you deaf' question? It's just been said that I'm serious here. You're really dumb! Stop spreading gossip!"

"Idiot!"

"They don't even acknowledge each other at the university. Now we see them arguing, so we'd never think they're married. They have no respect for each other."

A guy's voice declared, but I ignored him.

"What are you talking about, Falcon? Don't create more issues, especially involving me. You don't want your girls to stay away from you, right? It's the same for me," I teased him. "I'm not your wife," I emphasized.

I would embarrass him now. If I act stupid in private, why would I do the same in public? I did it on purpose to shame him.

Traces of hurt and anger were evident in his eyes, but I didn't want to believe it, so I let it go.

He took a deep breath, running out of things to say. "Can you just tell what really happened?"

"It was a trip," I answered. "My hand was itching. I suddenly choked the girl. Are you satisfied now? You're so gullible to believe what I said."

"Because your hand was itching? You're in college, Ayra!"

"Damn, you're really gullible," I said.

When it comes to me, he's blind. Blaming someone else is enough for him.

I looked at the girl I choked, who couldn't move anymore. When she saw my gaze on her, she stepped back.

Crazy.

"You're—"

"Are you done?" I cut him off. "I shouldn't even bother arguing with you since your mind is closed. Didn't you consider that I wouldn't hurt anyone without reason? How could you think of such a thing when you have a closed mind?" I sighed. "Falcon here, it's like only his cerebellum is in his head. Unfortunately, he hasn't grasped the largest part of the brain yet."

He couldn't respond, and someone suddenly screamed.

"My god, what happened, Ayra?!" Nicol shouted, looking at my entire appearance. "Oh, you're wet? Did someone pour water on you again?"

I saw Falcon examining my appearance. What now?

"Stop the argument," Ace interjected. "Both of you are acting like kids. You're just embarrassing yourselves in front of everyone. It's ridiculous."

I got annoyed by what he said, not because it wasn't true. I've been annoyed by his presence since earlier, so I just wanted him out of my sight.

"Do you second the motion?" I asked him.

"Do you need an essay from me? I'll explain," he answered.

I smirked. "Looks like Falcon is jealous, so distance yourself."

I heard Falcon groan and storm out of the cafe without hesitation. It seems he's done arguing with me. Good. I'm also tired of his face. I got used to only seeing him at night.

"Can I sit here?" Ace asked when we returned to our table with Jean.

He was really annoyed. He was very aggressive because my husband didn't know he was my ex-boyfriend.

"Ace Grande, stay away from me. You're the only one enjoying what you're doing," I said with irritation.

He went back to his friends, pretending nothing happened. Annoying.

I ate.

Jean and Nicol sat down in front of me. The students returned to their own lives.

"It's your birthday tomorrow," Nicol opened the conversation. "Shall we celebrate?"

"No, tomorrow is Saturday. I'll stay in your dorm. I'm tired of Falcon's face," I answered.

"Celebrate your special day with your family. I knew it would be a party," she insisted.

"I don't want to."

She pouted and just agreed with what I wanted. I knew they just wanted me to be happy on my birthday, but I didn't want to celebrate. I didn't want to have a party.

"Jean, where's your necklace? It's a symbol of our friendship," Nicol noticed when she looked at Jean.

Jean checked her neck. "I forgot it in the bathroom. I'll get it later."

After we finished, we went to our room. The professor arrived, so we listened to the lecture. After a few hours, the class ended.

"I'll pass by the library," I informed them.

They didn't object. I wanted to finish my homework quickly so I wouldn't have anything to do at home.

I am now walking down the hallway to the library. It's far from our room. As I walk, I look around, thinking I might see Falcon with his new mistress.

I didn't see Falcon, so I kept walking. There were no students around. It seemed like everyone was in their rooms. To my surprise, someone pulled me into a corner and pinned me against the wall.

"What are you doing?" I asked angrily. I didn't want to show that I was surprised by him.

"Our conversation earlier wasn't proper, so I thought we could handle it this way."

Ace suddenly kissed me. He moved his lips, and I didn't know what to do. Should I push him away? Should I respond to his kiss? I thought about what to do, but eventually, I responded as well.

After a few seconds, I sensed a presence. I immediately felt nervous.

"Kim," I whispered, pulling Ace away from me.

"Ah, s-sorry. I didn't mean to."

There was a teasing smile on her lips. I didn't know what to say. Should I explain? What should I do?

I left Ace and dragged Kim with me.

"You kissed Ace?" she asked incredulously.

"Ah, yes," I replied hesitantly. "And it was wrong. I-I cheated."

"But you wanted it, right? And you don't even consider yourselves married to Bryxwell, so your marriage is meaningless. I don't even know if that counts as cheating or what. Let's call it payback to your husband, hehe."

"I don't need to seek revenge. I was carried away."

"But you kissed his bestfriend!" she shouted with laughter. "Gosh, the kissing scene was so beautiful—"

"Kissing scene? About what?"

We paused our walk as we bumped into Falcon and his friends. It seemed like they were heading to the library. He looked serious, waiting for an answer.

"Ah!" Kim thought of a reason. "I love Kdramas! I showed Ayra a kissing scene. You know? Kissing scenes are the... best?" She laughed awkwardly. "Girl's talk, Bryx. Just ignore us—"

Kim couldn't continue as Falcon passed by her. They continued walking, and it looked like he wasn't interested in what my friend was saying.

"Your husband seems scary when he's suspicious," Kim breathed a sigh of relief. "Good thing I'm good at making excuses."

Hmm? She's right.

Continuation...