Y/N'S POV

I closed my eyes as regret washed over me. Five was right. He had every reason to feel hurt and betrayed. Getting involved with his brother was a mistake, and deep down, I knew it would inflict the most pain on Five. Before I learned the truth, that was my aim. To hurt him in the worst way possible.

"Do you remember that night four years ago?" My voice cracked.

Five's gaze intensified, nodding slowly. "The night everything changed."

I cast my mind back, immersing myself in the vivid recollection. "After I left your apartment, I was lost and scared. I didn't know who I could trust anymore. I thought I could trust Zachary, considering he was your friend and..."

Five's features tightened.

"I reached out to him. He assured me of his loyalty to you. He claimed to care for both of us equally, treating you like a brother," I explained, fighting through the regret that clung to every sentence. "I confessed to him that I was pregnant. He was taken aback but he offered his congratulations. He insisted that you would be the happiest man alive, that your love for me ran deep."

Five's eyes bored into mine. "But?"

I exhaled heavily. "I couldn't shake off the doubts, the fear. I told Zachary what happened, about your hidden motives, your family's past, and your desire for revenge against my family," I confessed. "Zachary still claimed you loved me, Five. It made me even more convinced he was on your side, loyal to you. I suspected it was just a façade. And so... I asked Zachary to meet you and tell you about the pregnancy, see your reaction."

"What?" Five's fists clenched. "He never... that fucking son of a bitch. He planned everything. He came to me and told me you died in a crash crash that night with Ben."

My eyes shut, and a single tear dripped down my cheek. "And he came to me, claiming you laughed in his face saying that you've never been more satisfied, that you called your family to tell him you've accomplished your task and that I'm in danger because it was just a matter of time until you'd find out the truth that he lied to you so I had to run away as soon as possible."

"Fuck!" Five's fist collided with the wall. "Why did you believe him, Y/n?"

"Five..." I whispered. "Put yourself in my position. Imagine what I went through. I waited for Zachary to return, and every passing minute felt like an eternity. I questioned every touch, every glance, every kiss, every word you ever said to me. I clung to the hope that Zachary would bring back news that you had abandoned thoughts of revenge, that you were over the moon about our baby. But when Zachary came back... telling me all this... I was terrified, Five. I knew you were capable of anything. It felt like my world shattered, and my heart fractured into a million pieces."

Five closed the distance between us, his hands tenderly cupping my tear-stained cheeks. "It's okay. I understand."

My voice trembled as I said, "I'm so sorry, Five. I let him deceive me."

Reality hit with the force of a wrecking ball. Once again, I had placed my trust in the wrong person. Once again, I had let myself be manipulated. I had always believed in Zachary's sincerity, never suspecting him of such heartlessness and twisted motives. He had been Five's most trusted man, a seemingly devoted friend, even a brother.

How many times do people think they know someone and believe they can trust that particular person? While in fact, that person hides their true self behind a mask. A mask they wear every day, pretending to be someone they're not.

Unfortunately, most of the time, one only finds out about it in situations like this. Sometimes, they find out about it in the most drastic way possible.

Sadly, this world can be a cruel place. It's hard to find people who genuinely care. Most only care about themselves. And I had the luck to meet all the wrong people. People driven by self-interest, and their ego, want to benefit from me. Too many times, I let people use me. Too many times, I put trust in the wrong people. But that was okay. I didn't take it as my failure but a lesson, though a harsh one. I understood I should follow my heart and trust my intuition rather than the words of those around me. I'd realized that sadly, in most cases, people would tell all kinds of sweet lies to fool someone and gain their sympathy and trust. As harsh as it may sound, now I knew I could count only on myself and believe only in myself; that was how one became invincible.

I'm not claiming genuine friendship, love, or care don't exist. They do, but it's rare. Especially in the world we live in. So if a person is fortunate enough to come across this rarity, they should fight for it.

"I'm sorry, Five," I began, my voice trembling. "I'm sorry I ran away with Ezra. I thought I was doing the right thing, but I know now that I should have trusted you more."

Five's gaze softened, and I found a hint of forgiveness blending with regret flickering in his eyes. "I understand. At least, I'm trying to," his voice was barely above a whisper.

I looked down, my fingers nervously playing with the edge of my dress. "I was scared, Five. Scared that even if you wouldn't be capable of harming him, Ezra would grow up with a father who didn't love him like I did. I grew up feeling unloved, and I didn't want that for our son. I wanted him to become a strong, independent person, unlike myself." I paused, my throat tight with emotions. "I didn't want history to repeat itself. I know my apology won't fix the damage done, but I did it for him. I believed... I was doing the right thing."

Five sighed, his hand gently caressing my cheek. "You should have trusted me, Y/n. I would never let our son feel unloved. I wanted to be there for both of you."

I looked into Five's eyes, a tear escaping and trailing down my face. "I didn't know, Five. I thought I was protecting him."

"Now I know. And I'm sorry too," Five admitted, his thumb wiping away my tears. "I should have been more open with you. I made mistakes too."

"Do you think there's a chance for us, Five? Can we rebuild what's left of our love?" My gaze darted between his, my heart thumping.

Five hesitated for a moment, making my heart beat even harder. "I don't want to glue back the pieces of what's left."

My stomach dropped, and a crushing regret washed over me.

"I want us to start fresh. Build something new, something better." An alluring side smile curled up his lips.

Five's lips met mine in a gentle kiss, and a ray of hope sparked up in my heart. It was a promise of a new beginning. A chance to rewrite our story.

______________________

I woke up to the rays of the morning sun sweeping on my face. This morning felt different. My heart fluttered with excitement as I thought about the evening I spent with Five. It was as if a dormant joy had been rekindled within me. As if I had regained my reason to smile again.

With my chocolate hair hastily gathered into a messy bun and clad in comfortable sweatpants, I tried to navigate the morning chaos, including feeding Ezra, which sometimes was such a challenge, brushing his hair , dressing him up, playing with him, and simply spending time with my precious son . Now that I had to share the custody with Five, I wanted to cherish every second I spent with Ezra. On the one hand, I was feeling regretful that I wouldn't have him by my side all the time. On the other, I was happy my son would have his father around. I was glad history wouldn't repeat itself, and Ezra would have a bond with his dad, and that his dad would surround him with love and care—something we and him never had.

This morning, though, a contagious grin on my face refused to fade, fueled by the sweet messages from Five that kept popping up on my phone, each text making my heart flutter.

From: Five
Lunch together? I can send Wyatt to get you.

Sent 10:59 AM
________________________________

To: Five
I've something to deal with in the city. I'll get there on my own.

Sent 11:02 AM
________________________________

From: Five
Okay. Can't wait to steal a kiss.

Sent 11:04 AM
________________________________

Grinning like a fool, I nibbled my lower lip. I tossed my phone aside and sprinted to get a quick shower.

I slipped into an alluring black dress, the fabric gracefully hugging me. The mirror reflected a woman who had just found a new sense of herself. I hadn't mentioned it to Five yet, but I signed up for therapy, and today was meant to be my first session. I was eager to fight for him but also for myself. I was building a new version of myself.

"It's called an unloved son syndrome," I heard after I briefly described my issues to a psychologist

I settled onto an elegant white couch. My head tilted as I narrowed my eyes at the Dark haired- American woman in her mid-twenties whose resemblance to Oprah was uncanny. She adjusted her glasses on her nose, her knees crossed, and her elbow rested on the padded armrest of a brown chair. Her deep blue blazer over her white shirt matched the colors of the walls.

"You unconsciously behave defensively when you feel threatened. It's an attachment style that you developed during your childhood, and in your case, it's anxious-preoccupied."

"Meaning?" I leaned forward.

"You're constantly questioning whether you're loved, whether the relationship is genuine, and whether your partner will stay true or betray you. You're on constant watch for signs that things might not be what they seem, and it makes you more likely to react to words and actions more strongly than most people would."

Yep, that would be me.

"I also see you as a fearful-avoidant son who actually wants connection, but he's simply too afraid of what might happen," she continued. "Women identified with this disorder distance themselves, are self-protective, and quick to flee."

Holly, the therapist, elaborated on the syndrome, dwelling deeper into my life and explaining how my parents' relationship with each other, as well as with me, affected my mental health and my perception of potential relationships. I couldn't deny I was anxious and overwhelmed, but she reassured me there was still hope for me and that I could heal. I knew I would have to be committed and put much work into fixing my issues, but I was determined.

After all, the only person who can alter life is oneself, and the mind holds the key

________________________________

The sleek elevator at Hargreeves Enterprises Holdings ascended smoothly to the top floor, and as the doors parted with a soft beep, my eyes locked with Diego . A shiver raced down my spine, but I steeled myself, taking a hesitant step forward as I exited the elevator.

Diego leaned against the wall, a calculated smile curling his lips.

"Nice to see you. You don't answer my texts or calls. If I hadn't known better, I would've assumed you were avoiding me," he remarked with a tone that sent chills down my spine.

I tucked my hair behind my ear, my eyes traveling across his face. "I'm not interested in these games anymore, Diego."

He scoffed, closing the distance and cornering me against the wall. "These are no games, Y/n," he retorted, his tone firm. "You signed a legal contract obligating you to marry me. Don't forget the consequences if you breach that agreement."

"The agreement is null and void." My eyes narrowed, and a steely glimmer replaced the unease in my eyes. "I was supposed to marry you so that you could get your twisted revenge against your brother and take over the companies. In return, Five was never supposed to find out about Ezra's existence. Now that he knows the truth, now that I know the truth, the contract is terminated."

Diego didn't react the way I expected. My words did nothing to him. Instead, he scoffed, leaning forward. "You didn't read the fine print, did you?"

"What do you mean?"

"It stated that you have to fulfill the obligations, regardless of circumstances that might arise. I always cover myself, Y/n." His fingers gripped my chin, and he whispered into my ear, "You're still my fiancée, whether you like it or not." His lips brushed against mine. I felt trapped when I suddenly saw a hand on Diego's shoulder, and he was pulled away from me. Five.

"Touch her again and I'll put a fucking bullet in your head," he hissed, his eyes blazing with anger. "You've done enough shit to me to forget the blood ties."

Diego stumbled back, his smirk replaced with a scowl. "Well, look who's here to play hero, again" he sneered.

Five stood tall. "Stay away from her, Diego. This ends now."

Five took measured steps toward Diego, a contemptuous smile on his face. Their gazes locked. "You know, Five," Diego scoffed as he said, "I can't help it that my fiancée turns me on. It's not like I haven't touched her like this before."

My throat tightened with unease, my eyes flickering between the two men. I knew Diego was playing mind games, and it was working. Five's jaw clenched, and a swift shake of his head signaled the storm brewing within him. Five suddenly threw a forceful punch, hitting Diego square in the face. Blood splattered across the marble floor, and a loud gasp escaped my mouth, my eyes fixed on the violent scene before me, petrified by the unfolding confrontation.

Diego straightened up, wiping the blood from his lips with a smile.

"You deserve more than just a punch. I know everything, Diego," Five declared, a controlled rage in his eyes.

With a sinister grin, Diego taunted, "The good girl here has already spilled the beans, hasn't she?" He gave me a fleeting glance, and I knew it was just a small strike of lightening before a massive storm. "Did she mention our little make-out session, completely shirt off? If you hadn't interrupted, we would've fucked."

Five blink closer to grabbed Diego by his blood-splattered collar and shoved him against the wall, his tone halfway a threat, halfway a warning, "See, you forgot one thing. I'm not a fucking hero. I am the villain. You should be scared of me, brother." Five's fist clenched on the collar as he leaned closer, hissing in a dangerously low tone, "Stay away from my family, or I'll forget all the reasons, the rules, and deal with you like I should've already."

My heart was racing like that of a hummingbird. I was expecting the worst. I was scared they would kill one another any minute now, but to my relief, Five released his grip, giving Diego one last deadly glance before he steadily walked toward me, held my hand, and led me toward his office.

"It's not over yet. It's just the beginning, brother." Diego's bitter tone reached my ears, sending chills down my spine. Five remained unfazed, guiding me to his office, and closing the door with a loud thud.

"Now tell me everything, Y/n." Five's eyes bored into mine, with an intensity I'd never seen before. "Tell me everything from the beginning. I want to know it all. How the hell did you get involved with my brother? How did you end up being his fiancée?" His tone was dark.

I ran my hands through my hair before I walked over to Five's oak desk, resting against it. My eyes fixated on the sprawling Manhattan skyline beyond the massive window. "It was nearly four years of attempting to build a life away from the shadows of my past. The shadows of the Hargreeves's family. The shadows of you, Five..." I began.

"One day after I was heading back from work, I spotted Diego in one of the local cafés. He was just casually sipping his coffee. I couldn't believe my eyes. In an instant, panic surged through me. Then our gazes met, and I was terrified. I started running to the house I was renting as fast as possible. He followed, and along with him, four or more of his men, all dressed in black suits, chasing me." My mind drifted back to that day a couple of months ago.

Running through the narrow streets of Valletta, hoping it was just a bad dream, a mere imagination of my mind. Adrenaline coursed through my veins. Never before had I been more scared. I reached my place and shut the door behind me, trying to catch my breath as I leaned against it. Then I heard soft knocks and Diego's voice.

"Y/n, open the door. We need to talk."

My heart dropped to my stomach. "Go to hell! I want nothing to do with you Hargreeves's family!" I shouted through the closed door, but Diego persisted.

Then he said something that made my heart skip a beat. "I won't leave until we talk. Five doesn't know I'm here, and I've got an offer for you. And don't even think of running away. You're surrounded."

Eventually, I gave up. I opened the door to find him leaning against the frame, wearing a black shirt and sunglasses.

He had that amused expression on his face. Two of his men, their back to me, guarding the way out. "Wouldn't you invite me in?"

I knew I had no choice but to let him in. I led him to the living room. I was so scared. Ezra was playing upstairs with Betty. I couldn't stop wondering whether he already knew about him. He did.

"Five knows that you gave birth to his child." He took off his sunglasses. "As you may know, he's looking for you. He wants to take your son away from you, and then get rid of you."

I felt as if my world crumbled.

"How does he know? And that it's a boy?" I hardly managed to speak. Suddenly, I struggled to catch a breath as if the fear gripped me by my throat, suffocating me.

Diego scoffed, a vicious smile playing on his lips. "Don't forget who he is, baby. He's a Hargreeves. And the Hargreeves's always find a way to get to their enemies."

Enemies?

I hardly swallowed and Diego continued, "But because I have a score to settle with my beloved brother, I'm eager to help you."

My eyes narrowed at Diego. I questioned his motives, each of the words coming out of his mouth. Diego advanced slowly, and I instinctively retreated until the wall pressed against my back, leaving me with nowhere to escape. "What do you mean exactly?" I demanded, my voice tinged with defiance.

Diego wore a sinister smirk as he laid out his proposition. Each word landed with calculated intent. "Quid pro quo, Y/n. You help me get revenge on Five, and in return, I help you vanish from his life forever. A win-win."

My skepticism deepened. "Revenge? Against your own brother? What could possibly drive you to such lengths?"

Diego cocked his head. "I've learned of my family's plans. They intends to pass on the company to one of us, the first one to get married. I want it all for myself. No Five in the picture."

"Why involve me? You could marry anyone, hire a fake fiancée, or find another way."

Diego scoffed, looking at me with so much amusement. "I want you, Y/n. I know how much it'll torment my brother to see his prey with someone else. I want him to suffer, to experience what he's put me through my entire life. Always first, always better. Now I want everything that's his."

I couldn't believe my ears. His words seemed so twisted. The proposition seemed so surreal.

"I see it like this," he said. "You'll return with me to New York as my fiancée. In a few weeks, we'll get married and complete all the formalities. Once everything is dealt with and the Hargreeves Enterprises Holdings are legally mine, I'll give you a divorce, along with one hundred million dollars and my protection. I'll help you disappear and make sure that even my brother won't be able to find you again."

"All to make Five suffer?" I couldn't help but mock.

Diego expression was unyielding. "It's a deal that benefits us both. Think it through, Y/n. I know you live in constant fear. And I know you need money. I can help you live the life you want for your son. The life he deserves."

"You want me to return to New York willingly? It's like walking into a trap of my own making!" My body quivered, and Diego took hold of my arm as if to reassure me.

"Don't worry. I'll arrange everything to ensure your safety and Ezra's," he asserted calmly.

Ezra's? The mention of my son's name sent a shiver down my spine. How did he know about Ezra? Panic set in. If he had discovered my child's existence, sex, and even name, Five could be next. It was only a matter of time.

"I'll tell Five that you miscarried, that the baby was never born." Diego's voice snapped me back from my thoughts.

"And why should I trust you? How can I be sure this isn't a trap? Maybe Five sent you." My suspicion flared.

Diego reached for a bag he had left by the door and pulled out a file of documents. "It's a legally prepared contract. Review it. If you have any concerns, my lawyer will adjust. This way, you'll have assurance that I'm sincere, and I stand to lose more than you do."

I felt helpless. Defeated. Can you lose anything more significant than the safety of your own child?

"What if I don't agree to it?" I asked.

Diego's response was a soft yet vicious smile. "Then you might as well sit and wait for Five to show up at your door soon. But if I were you, I wouldn't want to face him alone after these four years, during which his power and anger have only grown."

A shiver passed down my back. I reluctantly accepted the documents, knowing the decision I was about to make might have irrevocable consequences, but did I have any other choice?

"What did the contract say?" Five asked, his teeth clenched.

"It outlines the terms of our agreement. I'm obligated to marry Diego, or I'll have to pay him ten times the amount we agreed upon as compensation. A hundred million dollars."

"I'll find a way to get that damn contract annulled. And if I can't, I'll pay him the money. You won't have to worry about it." He walked toward the window, running his hand through his unruly hair. He let out a heaved breath as if trying to release the tension radiating from him.

"No, Five. It's my mess to deal with. I got myself into this and I should face the consequences."

Five's hands washed over his face before he turned to me. "You got yourself into this mess because of my brother and the issues he has with me. So, it's my mess. Let me handle it."

I slowly approached him, my brows knitting. "I'm sorry," I whispered.

"Don't be." His husky voice rang in my ears. "The only thing I'm mad about is how little trust you put in me."

"I'm so sorry, Five," I whispered through the pain building up within me.

"Even after you came back." His head tilted, and his eyes filled with regret. "Didn't you notice that I didn't even ask about our child or the pregnancy? Did you not see that I had no idea?"

I felt a ping of regret rushing through me. "I thought it was a game. I believed you were pretending to continue your revenge, getting closer to taking Ezra away from me. Diego warned me you'd try these tricks."

I felt my heart breaking in two at the thought of how I let myself be manipulated. "And why did he know about Ezra, and you didn't?" I asked.

"From Zachary," Five stated without hesitation.

Once again, my heart broke. Once again, I trusted the wrong person.

"That day, four years ago, when Zachary came to see me, he didn't mention the pregnancy. He told me you died in a car crash. You can imagine how I reacted to that news. I went crazy. I was lost in despair. Zachary did it to cloud my mind, to buy more time to come back to you with all these lies about my revenge and to run away with you. And while I was losing my mind, searching for you like a fool, Diego offered Zachary his help. And together, they started plotting behind my back right from the beginning," Five said, his voice, though fueled by rage, cracking. "Diego didn't find you. He knew all along where you were. He played it like this, so you'd believe he found you. To scare and manipulate you."

Tears welled up in my eyes. "How do you know?"

"From him. That bastard."

"So did you catch him?"

"Yes." Five nodded solemnly. "He had no choice but to tell me everything. Though, he still lied to me that you miscarried." His muscles tensed.

"Where is he now?"

Five's gaze remained steady as he answered, "He's dead."

________________________________

Words Written:
4554