Bentley's POV
"That's the spirit! Nobody's going to steal our man," she smirked. I darted toward her, a dangerous glint in my eyes. "What do you mean by our man?" 

"Chill, I'm on your side. I'm your cupid, remember?" she laughed nervously, a bead of sweat running down her face. 

I smiled mischievously. "I know, just wanted to spook you a little." 

"Hey! No fair," she protested, pouting. I giggled, then glanced at my watch. "My shift's starting soon. I'll see you later. Bye." I waved as I stood up. 

"See ya," Mia smiled, waving back. 

*** 

My shift was almost stress-free until I was summoned to his office, the most ruthless and unpredictable boss on earth. What could he want from me this time? 

"Come in," a voice replied to my knock on the door. I slowly entered the room and closed the door behind me. "Good day, sir. You requested me," I said, bowing my head to avoid his gaze. 

"Look me in the eyes when I'm speaking to you," he commanded firmly. I flinched, raising my head. "I-I'm sorry." 

He stared at me, a creepy smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "How was your night?" 

"Oh, it was fine—" 

"I'm not talking about that," he interrupted, lacing his fingers and leaning forward. "I heard from a certain someone that he could be pretty rough in bed, depending on his mood." 

My body stiffened, cheeks flushing red. I wanted to lie, to say we were just friends, but why would he believe me after seeing my initial reaction? I was tongue-tied, unprepared for his comment. 

"You're probably in a relationship with my dearest brother right now. Yes or yes?" he tilted his head, smiling. Before I could reply, he continued. "You're wondering how I knew, right? Oh, don't trouble your little brain with such things," he sighed, waving his hand dismissively. 

He stood up from his chair. "Only a mastermind would figure it out." 

My brows furrowed, trying to understand what he meant. I took a step back as he moved closer. "I'll give you a tip because I'm a good person," he said, his smile vanishing. "Break up while you still can." 

I froze, the word slipping from my mouth. "What?" 

He chuckled, leaning on his desk. "So young, so stupid. Stupidly in love," Dominic sighed, his face turning serious. "Damian might like you, but do you think you can handle the toxicity of the noble Giovanni family?" 

He paused, glancing at me. "Mom and Dad will be visiting Damian soon. If Dad finds out about your relationship, both of you will face consequences. But don't worry, Damian will suffer the most," he smirked. 

I felt as though cold water had been poured over my head. I hadn't considered how his family would react. Like mine, they would never approve of us being together. 

I had been a fool, swept away by the idea of a happily ever after, like in the romance novels I read. But there was still time to avoid the inevitable tragedy—if I acted now, neither of us would get hurt. 

"Is there a way to stop this from happening?" I asked in a low tone. 

"It's easy. Run away," he said with a shrug. 

"What?" I raised an eyebrow. 

"I know you live with him. Running away is the best option. He’ll expect you to hide somewhere expensive, so you need to stay in a cheap place. Perfect for you." 

"I have enough money to last a week or two. Will that be enough?" I asked. 

Dominic facepalmed, sighing deeply. "I'll send you some money—" 

"No thanks, I'll manage," I said, forcing a smile. 

"Whatever. You should go back and pack your things. Damian will be stuck in meetings all day. You won't get another chance like this." 

"Thank you. I'll take my leave," I said, bowing as I headed for the exit. 

*** 

I packed my essentials, ready to leave. My eyes fell on the note on the table, and I hesitated, questioning whether this was the right decision. He’d be mad at me for not discussing it with him. I took a deep breath, turned the knob, and stepped out. 

I took a taxi to a motel far from his house. 

Damian's POV
"Alpha, turn on the lights," I commanded, exhaling as I collapsed onto the nearest couch. I opened my eyes after a few seconds, glancing around. "Is he asleep?" I muttered to myself. 

My eyes landed on a folded piece of paper. "What's this?" I said, furrowing my brow in confusion as I unfolded and read it. 

Hi Damian,
I want you to know that I appreciate everything you've done for me. Thank you for the shelter, clothing, food, attention, care... and love.

I think it's best if we walk separate paths from now on. Don’t get the wrong idea; you're an amazing person, and you did nothing wrong. I'm doing this for us.

My phone is off, so you won’t be able to reach me. I wish you nothing but the best.

With love,
Bentley.

I froze, staring blankly at the paper. "What the hell?" I dialed his number, but it was unreachable. 

I buried my face in my hands. "What the hell happened while I was away?" I stood up, grabbing my phone. "He couldn’t have gotten far in such a short time." 

I called my secretary, and she picked up immediately. 

"Emma, contact all the hotel owners in the area. I need to find Bentley Kai. He booked a room this evening. You have thirty minutes." 

"But sir—" 

"I'll pay you." 

"Yes, sir! I’m on it," she replied, hanging up. 

I paced the room, impatiently waiting for her call. Fifteen minutes later, my phone rang. "Yeah?" I answered. 

"Sir, I found him!" 

Author's note:
I've been trying to upload this chapter for the past 20 minutes, but I had to update my Wattpad first.

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