Chapter 2
The club was packed. I would never go to a place this crowded unless it was for him.
I scanned the room for that one face I couldn't forget.
Just as I gave up, a voice called out to me.
"Erica?"
That mesmerizing man looked at my face with a kind of unfiltered happiness. He seemed genuinely relieved to see a familiar face.
"I didn't know you were planning to come to this university. I'm so glad to see you again."
I sensed he was trying to rush the conversation, eager to get away from me. I silently hoped I was wrong.
"Going to university in a different city was my only chance to escape."
"Rebellious queen," he said with a smile. Then he gently petted my hair.
"Adonis, come meet my friends!" called a girl I didn't recognize.
"Of course!" he replied. "I should get going, Erica. Call me whenever you want."
As he walked away, I found myself staring at his beautiful brown curly hair. I wished all his attention was mine alone.
I don't quite remember when I fell for him. Probably when I was thirteen. He was fourteen at the time. In our 'clean from peasants' society, everyone knew each other from a young age. We first met at horse-riding lessons. I wasn't interested in learning and did my best to get kicked out.
"Enough, Erica! You're just seeking attention. Either shut up or leave," said the instructor. I left immediately. Why bother keeping up with those exhausting people?
I was sure I'd get scolded for my behavior. My grandfather would be angry that I wasn't socializing with other shareholders. He was losing future profits because of how rebellious I was.
While sitting silently in the waiting room, I heard the door open. "Erica!" Adonis said calmly. He expected an answer, but after seeing me remain silent, he sat next to me. Together, we watched the aquarium.
"We're no different than those fish, right? Born to live in nature but dragged into this prison by rich people."
"Also known as dumb parents," I added. He smiled. "I know you're tired of being stuck. But our parents were born into this system too. No one escapes."
"If I can't escape, I'll at least be rebellious. I'll keep running until I die."
His smile faded. "You'll only hurt yourself," he said with concern.
"Yes, and that's my problem," I replied.
He looked back at the aquarium, deep in thought. Then, with excitement in his eyes, he said, "Follow me." Before I could respond, he grabbed my arm and started running.
***
About Adonis's Family Wealth
The Vasili family, to which Adonis belongs, is a name synonymous with ultra-luxury and refined taste. Their wealth is rooted in Vasilié Interiors, a prestigious design house established by his grandfather. The brand is internationally acclaimed, catering exclusively to billionaires, royalty, and top architects. Their exquisite furniture pieces are not just products but living art—rare, bespoke creations that often fetch record prices at auctions and are displayed in world-class museums. The Vasili legacy is one of old-world aristocracy seamlessly blended with modern empire-building, and Adonis carries the weight of that heritage on his shoulders.
***
About Erica's Family Wealth
On the other hand, Erica's family wealth is built on sprawling real estate empires and high-stakes investments. The Everharts have dominated New York's gated communities for decades, controlling vast residential complexes and lucrative commercial properties. The family's influence extends beyond money—it's about power, social status, and maintaining a flawless public image. Despite their wealth, the Everharts' fortunes come with toxic personal relationships masked by public perfection, leaving Erica feeling trapped in a gilded cage.
***
After running for a while, we stopped in front of the car that would take me home. He told the chauffeur, "I'm from the Vasili family, and I'm obliged to have a conversation with Lady Erica Everhart. Mr. Everhart invited me before."
He was referring to my grandfather. Nobody calls my father "Mr. Everhart," even though he—being born poor—took my mother's surname. It's probably because he isn't worthy of the title.
The chauffeur asked for a moment and called my grandfather. After hanging up, he invited Adonis into the car. Adonis, being the perfect gentleman, pulled off his polite act flawlessly. He wasn't overly fancy around me; he knew exactly how and where to act.
***
My powerful grandfather greeted us at the door. Normally, he wouldn't bother greeting most guests. The surname "Vasili" was the only reason he acted out of character.
After inviting Adonis to the grandest salon, he asked the butlers for tea and dessert.
Adonis started explaining how I had proposed a partnership: his family's design house would craft exclusive classroom furniture for our new international schools. Each piece would be upholstered with handwoven fabric imported directly from France.
We hadn't actually discussed any of this. He was definitely trying to save my reputation—and seemed successful, as my grandfather looked pleased.
After tea and some small talk, we said our goodbyes. My grandfather started praising me, telling how grateful he was to have a grandchild like me. He was thrilled that I had connected with the heir of Vasili Interiors.
That was probably the first time I'd ever been praised for anything I'd done. But it didn't touch me. Impressing my grandfather was the last thing I cared about.
Suddenly, I realized how happy I was to him. How grateful I was for someone trying to save me. How happy I was to be seen. His dark green eyes dug deep into my soul.
Suddenly, I owned something in this world. Not those suffocating, money-bound possessions—but something. Some feeling that could set me free. Suddenly, life felt worth living.
***
A slumber party is the best way to relax after seeing your crush and not knowing what to do next.
Tara was commenting on every single detail—every word choice, every little gesture. To me, they didn't mean much, but she was determined to help.
Then she said, "He likes you." I choked on my lemonade. This girl wasn't listening at all.
"Girl, he didn't even look my way when that girl called him."
"No, that was definitely an act. He's obsessed with you."
"Yeah, for sure."
"Girl, write that down. I'm never wrong when it comes to detecting 'love.'"
I laughed it off. "Yeah, love, whatever…"
How nice would it be to have someone like him love me? I wouldn't expect anything more from life.
Tara's phone rang.
***
"Yes, definitely. I won't tell Erica about her secret birthday party. You have nothing to worry about, Mrs. Everhart." She hung up the phone. "You heard her, Erica."
Great, I was going to have one of those plastic parties with those plastic people again. I couldn't be happier.
***