Chapter 31 – Kassia's POV
Kassia was stunned when her eyes met Cain's from across the room. There was something cold and calculated in his gaze, and before she could look away, he was already walking toward her.
"Mrs. Charity," Kassia said quickly, clutching her purse. "I need to use the restroom."
Cain's voice cut through the air. "She's not going anywhere."
"Hi, Mrs. Mysia," Cain's friends greeted warmly.
"Oh my word! I haven't seen you boys in such a long time. Come visit soon—before I travel back to the UK," Charity gushed.
"This is Kassia," Cain interrupted, his tone sharp and disinterested, effectively cutting his mother off.
"Wait—isn't she the girl from the restaurant?" Gabriel asked, squinting.
"Oh yes, that's true," another chimed in.
Their idle chatter was interrupted by the host's voice booming through the speakers. "Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats. The program is about to begin. I see so many elites tonight!"
After several minor awards were handed out, the atmosphere in the hall shifted. It was time for the major recognitions.
"And now, the 2025 Youth Innovator of the Year, known for his groundbreaking business collaborations and unapologetic leadership style—Mr. Cain Mysia!"
Applause thundered across the hall. Cain rose from his seat and walked to the podium with slow, deliberate confidence. His suit was sharp, commanding attention, his expression unreadable.
The golden plaque was presented to him. He took it without emotion, then faced the crowd and took the microphone.
"Thank you," he began, his voice crisp and cold. "I won't waste your time with false humility. I don't believe in luck. I believe in strategy, discipline, and execution."
The room fell silent.
"This award isn't just about my effort—it's also about effective collaboration. While I prefer to work alone, this year I made an exception. An intentional decision to involve someone whose presence challenged me in all the wrong ways."
A few guests chuckled nervously. Cain didn't smile.
"But it worked. Somehow. And as a result, I stand here not just as a recipient of this award, but as a man who now understands the... usefulness of partnership."
He paused, scanning the crowd until his gaze landed on Kassia. She sat at the back, stiff as stone.
"Join me on stage, Miss Kassia Wave," he called.
A collective gasp rippled across the room. Kassia blinked. Surely, she had misheard. But Cain stood there, expression blank, hand motioning for her.
"I believe it's time the public meets the woman who has not only partnered with me professionally—but who has also agreed to be my future wife."
Another wave of gasps. Flashbulbs erupted as the audience turned to see Kassia's stunned expression.
She rose slowly, her legs shaky beneath her. Her emerald gown shimmered under the lights, but her face was locked in disbelief. As she approached the stage, Cain extended a hand. She ignored it.
"Smile for the cameras," he murmured.
"You blindsided me," she said through gritted teeth, facing the crowd.
"And yet, here you are," he replied coldly.
The cameras flashed as they posed. Cain placed a firm hand on her lower back.
"Don't touch me," she whispered.
"Too late. They already saw. Might as well keep up the act."
"Act? Is that what this is to you?"
"Everything is a performance. You either direct it or get directed."
Her smile was stiff. His expression remained cold, calculated.
As they exited the stage, Kassia yanked her arm away.
"You used me. Again. Without my consent."
Cain stopped just off-stage, his voice low and dangerous. "You're benefiting from this just as much as I am. You're no one's victim."
"Dragging me into this circus makes me look like a fool!"
"No. It makes you look like my fiancée. And trust me, that's power."
"I never agreed to marry you."
"You agreed to play along. This is what that means. Walk away now, and you'll walk away from every bit of help I've extended—to you and your sister."
Kassia's eyes blazed. "You are despicable."
"And yet, you're still standing next to me. Now shut up and come meet the press."
He didn't wait. Kassia had no choice but to follow.
"Mr. Mysia, Miss Kassia—congratulations!" a reporter beamed. "The announcement shocked everyone. Can you tell us about your relationship?"
Cain didn't hesitate. "Private. Efficient. Strategic."
"How did you two meet?"
Kassia opened her mouth, but Cain cut in. "She was in trouble. I offered her a solution."
The reporter turned to Kassia. "Is that true?"
Kassia smiled tightly. "Apparently, I did."
"You two make quite the power couple."
Cain wrapped an arm around her waist again. She tensed.
"Interviews are done," he announced.
Back in the lounge, Kassia shoved his hand away.
"Don't touch me again."
Cain's smirk returned. "If you want out, say the word. But don't expect anything else from me if you do."
"You're blackmailing me."
"I'm being honest. Something you clearly struggle with."
She stepped closer, rage written across her face. "One day, you'll cross the wrong person, Cain. All your arrogance, all your power—it won't save you."
Cain leaned in, voice like ice. "Until then, smile for the damn camera."
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Author's note
Yep, so sorry for dragging this chapter 😅
See you in the next one!
Xoxo,
CC